KKN Gurugram  Desk | The cricketing world is set to witness an intense battle between India and New Zealand on Sunday, March 2, 2025. Both teams are vying for the top spot in the rankings, and this match will be crucial for determining who takes the lead. With such high stakes, the Indian team may make some significant changes to its playing XI.

Rohit Sharma’s Absence Possible for the Upcoming Match

As per reports, the Indian team could opt to rest captain Rohit Sharma for this important clash. The team management is said to be planning some alterations in the playing XI, and this could be a strategic move to provide Sharma with a much-needed break. While his leadership has been pivotal, the team could afford to give him a breather for this particular encounter.

However, some reports also suggest that the team might make changes due to Shubman Gill’s illness, which could further influence the team’s lineup.

Rishabh Pant Set for a Return

The spotlight is on Rishabh Pant, with many speculating that he could make his way back into the squad for this crucial encounter. Rishabh Pant has been missing from the Indian lineup in the first two matches of the Champions Trophy 2025, with KL Rahul stepping in as the wicketkeeper-batsman.

If Rohit Sharma is indeed rested, there is a high possibility of Pant replacing him in the team. Pant could be brought in as the wicketkeeper-batsman, while KL Rahul could move to the opening position alongside Shubman Gill. This would allow India to maintain its strong batting lineup, with Pant potentially delivering a game-changing performance in the middle order.

KL Rahul and Shubman Gill as Openers

If Pant makes his way into the playing XI, it’s likely that Shubman Gill and KL Rahul will open the batting for India. The duo has been in good form, and this strategic change could offer the team the stability and aggression it needs at the top. KL Rahul, in particular, has been a reliable opener in the recent past, and his partnership with Gill could provide a solid foundation for India in the early stages of the game.

Changes in the Bowling Department

It will also be interesting to see whether India makes any adjustments to its bowling attack for this match. The pitch in Dubai has traditionally been favorable for spinners, but the Indian fast bowlers have also delivered strong performances in the past.

One major change that could occur is Kuldeep Yadav’s potential exclusion from the playing XI. As per sources, the team may decide to rest Kuldeep and hand the opportunity to Varun Chakravarthy. Chakravarthy, who has shown promise in various formats, could provide a fresh spin option for India.

India’s spin department is already strong with the presence of Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel, and adding Chakravarthy to the mix could give the team more variety in the attack. These three spinners could form a formidable combination to tackle the New Zealand batsmen, who have been known to struggle against quality spin bowling.

Changes in the Pace Attack: Harshit Rana’s Inclusion

As for the fast bowling department, Harshit Rana could make his debut in this crucial match. Rana, who has impressed in domestic cricket, may be given the opportunity to showcase his skills on the international stage. His addition to the team could bring fresh energy to the pace attack, which has been led by Mohammad Shami in the past.

Shami, on the other hand, might be given a rest ahead of the later stages of the tournament, with India opting to rotate their fast bowlers to keep them fresh. If Shami is rested, it could pave the way for Harshit Rana to prove his worth in the big league.

Possible Playing XI for India

Considering all the speculated changes, here’s a look at how India’s playing XI could shape up for the match against New Zealand on March 2:

1. KL Rahul (Opener)
2. Shubman Gill (Opener)
3. Virat Kohli (Middle-order)
4. Rishabh Pant (Wicketkeeper-Batsman)
5. Hardik Pandya (All-rounder)
6. Ravindra Jadeja (All-rounder)
7. Axar Patel (All-rounder)
8. Varun Chakravarthy (Spinner)
9. Mohammad Shami (Pacer)
10. Harshit Rana (Pacer)
11. Jasprit Bumrah (Pacer)

New Zealand’s Challenge

New Zealand is known for its resilience and well-balanced team, so India can’t afford to take them lightly. With both teams competing for the top spot, the battle will not only be for points but also for pride. India will need to adapt to the conditions quickly, and with their new lineup, they will be hoping to capitalize on the strengths of their key players.

The Importance of the March 2 Match

This match between India and New Zealand is vital for both teams, especially in terms of Champions Trophy progression. Both teams will be looking to secure the top spot in the group and build momentum for the knockout stages.

A win here could solidify India’s position at the top of the table, but New Zealand won’t make it easy. Both teams will be fighting for supremacy in this high-pressure encounter. The match promises to be a thrilling contest with both teams having their eyes set on the prize.

The India vs New Zealand match on March 2 is expected to be one of the most exciting fixtures of the year. With key changes in India’s playing XI and strategic rotations, this match will offer a chance for new players to step up and make an impact.

Whether it’s Rishabh Pant’s return to the squad or the debut of Harshit Rana, fans can expect a thrilling match that could be crucial for the overall tournament standing. The stakes are high, and both teams are ready to give their best on the field.

Stay tuned for more updates on the match and the latest news surrounding India’s cricketing journey in the Champions Trophy 2025.