Shubman Gill Likely to Lead India in the Next Match Against New Zealand in Champions Trophy | Reports

As per recent reports, Shubman Gill might make his ODI captaincy debut in India’s final Champions Trophy 2025 group-stage match against New Zealand. The Indian Vice Captain could lead India in the final group stage match if Rohit Sharma does not play the match due to a hamstring injury. The young vice captain could be given the responsibility to lead the Men in Blue.

Shubman Gill to Captain India Against New Zealand?

According to The Indian Express, Gill might make his ODI leadership debut in Dubai for India’s last Champions Trophy group stage match. India has already qualified for the semifinals, so this could be the golden opportunity for India to test their bench strength and Rohit also gets the chance to get recover from his injury before the knockout stage.

Gill, who missed practice on Wednesday due to illness, returned to the nets on Thursday and batted for an extended period of time.

Will Rishabh Pant Replace Rohit Sharma?

If Rohit Sharma misses the match against New Zealand, then Pant could be his most reliable replacement. Although hasn’t played a single match in the tournament so far. He was not available for the high-voltage clash against Pakistan due to illness but now fully recovered and spent time in the nets on both Wednesday and Thursday.

With KL Rahul as the first-choice keeper, Pant’s only route into the starting lineup is to replace a player. Meanwhile, India has the option of putting Washington Sundar in the playing eleven. Sundar’s acquisition would undoubtedly improve the all-round and spin unit.

India to Test Bench Strength Against New Zealand

As we all know, India is already qualified for the semi-finals, so now they can test their bench strength and give some rest to the injured players like Rohit Sharma. But the main question will be which player to give the balance to, the team will be important.

As the cricketing world eagerly awaits an official confirmation, all eyes will be on India’s playing XI for the crucial match against New Zealand. Will Rishabh Pant get the chance to play or will it be someone else’s or Rohit Sharma’s himself start the match? Only time can tell that.