India's Possible Playing XI vs New Zealand: Two Big Changes Expected

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The Indian cricket team is ready for its last Group A match in the ICC Champions Trophy. On Sunday, they will face New Zealand. So far, India has been in great form against the Kiwis, winning their last five One Day International (ODI) matches.

Both teams have already secured their spots in the semi-finals. Because of this, India might rest some key players and give a chance to those who have not played much in the tournament. Captain Rohit Sharma is expected to make a couple of changes to the team.

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Rohit Sharma Fit, Set to Open with Shubman Gill

There were concerns about Rohit Sharma’s fitness, but those worries are now gone. On Friday, he batted for a long time in the practice session, which means he is fit to play. Rohit will likely open the innings with Shubman Gill, who has been in excellent form. After them, Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer will play in the middle order.

KL Rahul to Keep Wickets Over Rishabh Pant

KL Rahul is expected to continue as the wicketkeeper. Rishabh Pant was an option, but since Rahul attended the pre-match press conference, it is clear that he will remain the first choice behind the stumps.

Changes in the Bowling Line-Up Expected

All-rounder Hardik Pandya will stay in the playing XI as there is no other player who can replace him. However, the team might make a change in the spin department. One of Ravindra Jadeja or Axar Patel might be rested, allowing Washington Sundar to get a chance in the team.

In the pace attack, Mohammed Shami is likely to be rested for this game. Arshdeep Singh, who has not played a match in this tournament yet, could replace him. Earlier, Harshit Rana was preferred over Arshdeep to play alongside Shami. Now, Arshdeep might finally get an opportunity.

Varun Chakravarthy to Replace Kuldeep Yadav?

In the spin bowling department, there could be another change. Varun Chakravarthy is expected to replace Kuldeep Yadav in the team. Chakravarthy performed well in the recent T20 series against England, and this match could be a good opportunity to test him. Kuldeep has not been at his best in this tournament, so resting him might be a good decision.

India's Possible Playing XI Against New Zealand:

• Rohit Sharma (Captain)

• Shubman Gill

• Virat Kohli

• Shreyas Iyer

• KL Rahul (Wicketkeeper)

• Hardik Pandya

• Axar Patel / Washington Sundar

• Ravindra Jadeja

• Harshit Rana

• Arshdeep Singh

• Varun Chakravarthy

With these changes, India aims to test its bench strength while maintaining its winning momentum before the semi-finals. Fans are excited to see how the new players perform in this important match.