KL Rahul dismisses fitness concerns surrounding Rohit and Shami
What's the story
KL Rahul has dismissed concerns over the fitness of skipper Rohit Sharma and pacer Mohammed Shami as India prepare for their crucial ICC Champions Trophy clash against New Zealand on March 2.
"Fitness-wise, there are no concerns about anyone missing a game as far as I know," Rahul stated to reporters during a press conference today (February 28).
Meanwhile, this assurance comes amid reports of Rohit being injured and getting rested for the upcoming match.
Here's more.
Team strategy
Rahul addresses squad rotation discussions
With the semi-finals of the ongoing Champions Trophy just around the corner, the debate of squad rotation has begun.
Rahul admitted that there is a temptation to try different players but remained unsure if India would make any changes.
"There are temptations to try different players before the semis, but I am not sure that will be the case. There is little time before the semifinals, so you would want players to get maximum game time," he said.
Tournament progress
India's victory over Pakistan secures semi-final spot
India's victory over arch-rivals Pakistan at the Dubai International Stadium secured their spot in the ICC Champions Trophy semi-finals.
A brilliant ton from Virat Kohli and stellar bowling from Kuldeep Yadav and Hardik Pandya ensured a six-wicket win for India.
But it wasn't all smooth as both Shami and Rohit had fitness scares during the match.
Player updates
Shami and Rohit's fitness concerns during Pakistan match
During the Pakistan match, Shami showed early signs of ankle discomfort and briefly left the field before returning to bowl, finishing with 0/43 in eight overs.
Meanwhile, Rohit appeared to pick up a hamstring issue while celebrating Babar Azam's wicket.
He handed over the captaincy to Shubman Gill for a while before returning for India's chase.
Upcoming match
India remain confident despite fitness scares
Despite the fitness scares, India will be confident going into their clash against New Zealand.
The team will look to cement its dominance in the tournament with this much-awaited encounter.
With momentum on their side and players determined to stay fit, the upcoming match promises to be a thrilling contest in the 2025 Champions Trophy.
Performances
Rohit and Shami's performance so far in the tournament
Rohit looked in good touch against Bangladesh, scoring 41 off 36 balls before falling to Taskin Ahmed in the 10th over.
However, he struggled in the second game, managing just 20 off 15 balls before being dismissed by Shaheen Afridi.
Meanwhile, Shami has been in top form post-injury, claiming his sixth five-wicket haul (5/53) in the opener.
As mentioned, against Pakistan, he went wicketless, conceding 43 runs in eight overs.