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Team India are on a high as they have already sealed their Champions Trophy 2025's semifinal berth riding on their emphatics wins in the first two matches. Rohit Sharma-led India are now gearing up for their last-league match against New Zealand which is slated to be played on March 2 in Dubai International Stadium.
Meanwhile, right ahead of their crucial clash against New Zealand, which will decide their opponent for the semifinal, they have received a big boost. Following a two-day break, the Rohit Sharma-led squad has resumed training at the ICC Academy in Dubai, preparing for their final league stage encounter.
With the match against New Zealand drawing closer, positive developments have emerged from the Indian camp. As per a Times of India report, India's bowling coach Morne Morkel and star wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant have rejoined the team's camp and training sessions. Morkel had temporarily returned home for personal reasons after the match against Bangladesh, while Pant had been sidelined due to a viral fever, causing him to miss training and the subsequent match against Pakistan. Their return provides a timely lift to the Indian squad.
India's strong performances in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 have secured their place in the semifinals. India will play their semifinal match on March 4. Back to back wins against Bangladesh and Pakistan at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium have propelled them into the knockout stage.
Despite being part of the squad, Rishabh Pant has yet to feature in India's playing XI in any of the matches. KL Rahul has been preferred as the wicketkeeper-batter, delivering commendable performances in the two matches he has played.
Given the team's current balance and Rahul's form, Pant's inclusion in the playing XI appears unlikely, barring any unforeseen circumstances. India has displayed a well-rounded team dynamic throughout the tournament and will aim to maintain their winning momentum in the upcoming match against New Zealand.
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Since his appointment as bowling coach, Morne Morkel has made a positive impact on the Indian national cricket team. His contributions have been evident in the ongoing Champions Trophy 2025, where the Indian bowling attack has delivered exceptional performances.
Specifically, the pace bowlers—Mohammed Shami, Harshit Rana, and Hardik Pandya—have consistently performed well. This trio has played instrumental roles at critical moments during matches, providing crucial breakthroughs and maintaining pressure on opposing teams. In both the matches, India didn't let their opponents go past 25-run mark. In their campaign opener Indian bowler only let Bangladesh post 228 runs on the board, while against Pakistan could only post 241 on the board against disciplined Indian bowling.
