Champions Trophy 2025: Mohammed Shami Likely to Be Rested Against New Zealand, Arshdeep Singh Set to Replace Him
By Smrati Khare in 2 hours
India is expected to make a tactical change in their playing XI for their final Champions Trophy 2025 group-stage match against New Zealand on March 2 at the Dubai International Stadium. Mohammed Shami is likely to be rested due to calf discomfort, paving the way for Arshdeep Singh to make his tournament debut.
Why Is Mohammed Shami Being Rested?
Injury Management: Shami experienced calf discomfort during India‘s win over Pakistan on February 23. While he continued bowling, the team management is prioritizing his fitness for the semi-finals on March 4.
Bowling Rotation Strategy: With India already qualified, this is an opportunity to give Arshdeep Singh game time and manage workload ahead of the knockouts.
Left-Arm Advantage Against New Zealand: The Kiwi batting lineup includes five left-handers, and Arshdeep’s natural swing could pose a major challenge. His ability to swing the ball both ways makes him a strategic inclusion.
Key Reasons for Arshdeep Singh’s Inclusion:
Resting Shami for Semi-Finals – Ensuring he is fully fit for the knockout stage.
Left-Arm Variation – Arshdeep’s angle and swing can trouble New Zealand’s top order.
Impressive Training Performance – Arshdeep bowled 13 overs at full intensity, while Shami bowled only 6-7 overs with a limited run-up during practice.
India’s Probable Playing XI vs New Zealand
Rohit Sharma (C)
Rishabh Pant (WK) / Washington Sundar
Arshdeep Singh (Replaces Shami)
Training Session Insights Hint at Change
During India’s latest training session, bowling coach Morne Morkel closely monitored both Shami and Arshdeep.
Arshdeep Singh – 13 overs at full intensity, showcasing sharp movement and control.
Mohammed Shami – 6-7 overs with a controlled run-up, indicating workload management ahead of the knockouts.
What the Team Management Said
Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate addressed the possibility of squad rotation:
“Our priority is to have our best players fit for the semi-finals, but we also want to keep the momentum going. So we might rotate the bowling attack.”
This statement further hints that India could make key changes to maintain freshness for the knockout stages.
Why This Match Still Matters?
While both India and New Zealand have secured semi-final spots, this match will determine the group topper.
Why finishing first in the group is crucial?
Decides the semi-final opponent – Finishing at the top could provide a more favorable matchup.
Winning momentum – India would prefer to enter the semi-finals on a winning note.
Testing squad depth – This game allows Arshdeep and others to get valuable match time.
Mohammed Shami is likely to be rested to ensure he is fully fit for the semi-finals, and this presents a golden opportunity for Arshdeep Singh to make an impact.
With New Zealand featuring multiple left-handers, Arshdeep’s left-arm swing could be a key factor. His selection also allows India to assess their bowling options ahead of the knockouts.
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