Champions Trophy 2025: Shubman Gill to debut as India’s ODI captain vs New Zealand

India has had a successful start to the current ICC Champions Trophy 2025 season, winning back-to-back games to guarantee a berth in the quarterfinals. However, due to injury worries, the team may see some changes in their starting lineup before their last group-stage match against New Zealand in Dubai.

A possible hamstring injury could keep regular captain Rohit Sharma out of the forthcoming match. Vice-captain Shubman Gill may then take over as captain, making his first appearance as India’s ODI captain.

Rohit’s injury scare occurred on February 23, during India’s last game against Pakistan. He hurt his hamstring while chasing a ball in the first few overs of Pakistan’s innings. After a while, he was still on the field, but he was clearly uncomfortable. Rohit was the only batter to skip batting during Wednesday’s India training session, according to an Indian Express story. Rather, he engaged in mild jogging workouts and conversations with head coach Gautam Gambhir.

Rahul, Pant, and Sundar are vying to open alongside Shubman Gill.

There is significance to the game versus the Kiwis in terms of winning Group A. But with just one day off before India’s March 4 semi-final, the squad might give the seasoned opener’s recuperation top priority. Gill will be seen assuming the role of leader if the captain is rested. With a century against Bangladesh and a strong 46 against Pakistan, the 24-year-old has been playing at an exceptionally high level.

The Punjabi native led India in the T20I series against Zimbabwe last year, demonstrating previous captaincy expertise. In the meanwhile, the more important question is who will start with Gill if Rohit is not available. KL Rahul, who has experience playing as an opener, is an obvious choice. Rishabh Pant, who has opened in white-ball cricket before, is an additional option. Another candidate for a slot is Washington Sundar.