India has already secured a place in the semi-finals with two consecutive wins. So the last match of the group stage against New Zealand is not very important for Rohit Sharma’s team. There are rumors that several experienced cricketers of the team may be rested for this match. Captain Rohit may also be on that list.
Speaking about the playing XI for the New Zealand match before practice on Friday, Lokesh Rahul said, “As far as I know, no one has any fitness issues. Everything is fine. We will know better after practice today. Everyone is in the gym, practicing.”
“I don’t have the power to take any decisions in the team. But in such matches, there are always thoughts of making some changes. There is a thought of giving a chance to those who haven’t played. I don’t know if it will happen in Sunday’s match or not. There is only one day before the semi-final. We have already had six days of rest. We will definitely try to get everyone in the semi-final. But I don’t know yet whether there will be any changes in the New Zealand match,” he added.
Rahul is being played as a wicketkeeper in the Champions Trophy for tactical reasons. As a result, Rishabh Pant has to spend time sitting on the bench. Will Pant have to fight with Rahul in terms of playing in the XI? In response to the question, Rahul said, ‘Of course. I will not lie. Pant is a very talented cricketer. Everyone knows what he can do, how quickly he can change the game.’
‘There is always a discussion between the coach and the captain about who should be played, me or Pant. But when I am given a chance, I always think about what I can do for the team. I do not think about fighting with Pant. I am sure Pant himself thinks the same. Nobody wants to play like anyone else,’ he added.
