Why Harshit Rana Isn’t Playing in Today’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Match 12 Against New Zealand?

In a strategic move, the Indian team has decided to rest young pacer Harshit Rana for their final ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Group A match against New Zealand in Dubai. With both teams already securing a place in the semifinals, India has opted to test their bench strength by bringing in Varun Chakravarthy in place of Rana. This decision was confirmed by captain Rohit Sharma during the toss.

Why is Harshit Rana Not Playing Against New Zealand?

Harshit Rana has been a promising fast bowler for India, stepping in as a replacement for Jasprit Bumrah, who was ruled out due to injury before the tournament. However, as India has already secured a semifinal spot, the team management has chosen to rotate their squad and give Varun Chakravarthy an opportunity to showcase his skills.

By resting Harshit Rana, India is likely managing his workload and ensuring that he is fully fit and fresh for the knockout stages. The decision also aligns with India‘s strategy of adapting to spin-friendly conditions at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Rohit Sharma Confirms Squad Change at Toss

During the toss, Rohit Sharma highlighted India’s approach for this match:

“Was anyway looking to bat first, wanted to see what we could do upfront and then challenge our bowlers since we chased in both games. Approach will be very similar to the previous games, just trying to do the same things. One change for us – Harshit has been rested, Varun is playing for us.”

This move is aimed at strengthening India’s spin attack, considering the dry pitch conditions in Dubai.

Varun Chakravarthy Replaces Harshit Rana – A Tactical Move

The inclusion of Varun Chakravarthy adds mystery spin to India’s bowling attack, complementing the likes of Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav. This decision reflects India’s confidence in their spin trio to trouble the New Zealand batters, who have struggled against spin in past encounters.

With New Zealand opting to bowl first, India will rely on their batting strength to set a strong total and allow their bowlers to apply pressure in the second innings.

India vs New Zealand – Key Match Details

Tournament: ICC Champions Trophy 2025

Match: India vs New Zealand (Group A)

Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium

Toss Result: New Zealand won the toss and opted to bowl

India’s Squad Change: Harshit Rana rested, Varun Chakravarthy included

India’s Road Ahead in Champions Trophy 2025

India remains one of the tournament favorites, having won both their previous group matches against Bangladesh and Pakistan convincingly. With a well-balanced squad and a strong bowling attack, India looks poised for a deep run in the tournament.

While this match against New Zealand won’t affect India’s semifinal qualification, it plays a crucial role in deciding the top position in Group A. A win here would give India momentum heading into the knockout rounds.

India’s decision to rest Harshit Rana for this match is a smart rotation strategy, ensuring key players are well-rested while also giving others a chance to gain match practice ahead of the semifinals. With Varun Chakravarthy stepping in, India’s spin attack looks even more dangerous on the slow Dubai pitch.

Stay updated with all the cricketing action, follow Cricadium on WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, Telegram,  and Instagram