Champions Trophy: Shubman Gill may lead India against NZ
What's the story
Shubman Gill is poised to make his ODI captaincy debut in India's upcoming ICC Champions Trophy clash against New Zealand.
This comes amid reports of regular skipper Rohit Sharma potentially missing the match due to a hamstring injury he sustained during India's second Group A game against Pakistan.
The Indian team management is mulling resting Sharma for the final group-stage match on March 02, as reported by The Indian Express.
Here are further details.
Temporary takeover
Gill's leadership skills were tested during Sharma's injury
Notably, Gill, who is the vice-captain of the team, assumed leadership duties temporarily when Sharma left the field in India's preceding game against Pakistan.
Although Sharma rejoined the field after a few overs, he didn't appear at his best and skipped the net sessions during India's training session in Dubai on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, this has sparked concerns about his fitness for the upcoming match and his availability for the rest of the tournament.
Training session
Sharma's absence from training raises concerns
During Wednesday's intense training session, Sharma was the only batter who skipped net practice and throwdowns.
Instead, he spent considerable time strategizing with head coach Gautam Gambhir.
However, a brief sprint by Sharma hinted that his injury may not be as bad as initially feared but could still see him rested for the New Zealand match.
Match significance
India's strategy for the upcoming match
The upcoming match against New Zealand holds little significance for progression, as both teams have secured semi-final spots.
India would want to top Group A, after having won both their games so far.
Another reason Sharma might be rested is the short turnaround, with just one day between this game and India's semi-final on March 4.
Squad changes
Potential replacements for Sharma in the XI
If Sharma is indeed rested, he could be replaced by either Rishabh Pant or Washington Sundar.
Both left-handers have reportedly spent extended hours in the nets ahead of the match.
This comes after a last-minute change to India's squad, where Yashasvi Jaiswal was dropped to include spinner Varun Chakaravarthy.
However, India do not have a backup opener in their squad for this tournament.