Rohit Sharma, Mohammed Shami Fit for New Zealand Clash, Confirms KL Rahul

The Indian cricket team has received a major boost ahead of their final Champions Trophy 2025 group-stage clash against New Zealand, as KL Rahul confirmed that both Rohit Sharma and Mohammed Shami are fit to play.

Concerns had emerged after Rohit Sharma and Shami left the field during India's dominant win over Pakistan due to fitness issues. However, Rahul dismissed any worries, saying, "Fitness-wise, everything seems pretty okay. There are no real concerns about anyone missing, as far as I know. Everyone has been at the gym; everyone has been in training."

India vs New Zealand: Dead Rubber Before the Semi-Finals

Both India and New Zealand have already secured a place in the semi-finals from Group A, while Pakistan and Bangladesh are eliminated after suffering consecutive defeats.

With only a one-day break between the India-New Zealand match and the semi-finals, speculation arose over whether senior players would be rested. However, Rahul suggested that India would field a full-strength squad, stating:

"There will be some temptation to try out players who have not gotten a game. But I don’t think that will happen in the Champions Trophy because there is just one day's break between the final group-stage game and the semi-final."

KL Rahul vs Rishabh Pant: The Wicket-Keeping Debate

Rahul also addressed the ongoing selection dilemma between himself and Rishabh Pant in India's ODI squad.

Pant, who made a comeback after his life-threatening car crash, is known for his aggressive batting style. However, Rahul has cemented his place as India’s primary wicketkeeper-batsman since August 2023, delivering strong performances in the 50-over World Cup, where he scored 452 runs and effected 17 dismissals.

"There is competition with Pant, I won’t lie. He is a very talented player and has shown all of us what he can do. So there is always a temptation in the team, with the captain and the coach, to think if they should play him or me," Rahul admitted.

What’s Next?

• India vs New Zealand: Final Group A match on Sunday
• Champions Trophy 2025 Semi-Finals: India’s next big challenge

With no injury concerns, India looks set to go full strength against New Zealand, ensuring momentum before the knockout stages.