Team India have been on a roll in the tournament, securing back-to-back victories over Bangladesh and Pakistan, both by six wickets. With these wins and based on recent results of Group A, Rohit Sharma’s men have officially sealed their spot in the semifinals.

Indian captain Rohit Sharma

Therefore, Bangladesh and Pakistan are out of contention whereas New Zealand have also qualified for the semis. Meanwhile, the Men in Blue gear up to face New Zealand at the Dubai International Stadium on March 2, Sunday.

Team India will aim to maintain their unbeaten streak but could opt to rest key players to manage workloads ahead of the knockouts. Yes, the injury concerns could force selection decisions.

Captain Rohit Sharma remains doubtful for the match after struggling with a niggle in the previous game against Pakistan. If he isn’t fully fit, the team management may choose to rest him. In this scenario, KL Rahul would move up as an opener and Rishabh Pant could be slotted into the XI as a middle-order batter.

Another major concern is Mohammed Shami, who showed signs of discomfort in the most recent outing. With Jasprit Bumrah already unavailable, India is unlikely to risk the right-arm fast bowler even if he regains fitness. Instead, Arshdeep Singh is expected to get a chance such that India’s pace attack remains fresh for the semifinals.

If Rohit is rested, Shubman Gill and KL Rahul will take charge at the top, followed by Virat Kohli at one down, Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant would follow in the middle order.

On the contrary, Hardik Pandya remains crucial as the all-rounder, providing balance with both bat and ball. The spin attack is likely to remain unchanged, featuring Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, and Kuldeep Yadav, while the pace department will be led by Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana.

Team India’s Probable XI vs New Zealand:

Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana.

Team India squad

Rohit Sharma (captain), Shubman Gill (vice-captain), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Ravindra Jadeja, and Yashasvi Jaiswal.