India vs New Zealand Predicted Playing 11: India will take on New Zealand at the Dubai International Stadium, looking to maintain their unbeaten run and secure a place in the semifinal. With two wins in two matches, India sits comfortably in the points table and is nearly assured of a spot in the knockouts. Their last victory came against Pakistan, where Virat Kohli’s century helped them chase down 242 with ease, sealing a six-wicket win.
Injury Concerns Loom Over India’s Playing XI
Despite their strong position, India faces a few injury concerns ahead of the crucial clash. Captain Rohit Sharma, who struggled with a niggle against Pakistan, remains doubtful. If he is not fully fit, India could opt to rest him, promoting KL Rahul as an opener while bringing Rishabh Pant into the XI.
Mohammed Shami is another concern after appearing to be in discomfort in the previous match. Given his history of injuries and the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, India might not risk playing him in this game. Arshdeep Singh could be given an opportunity, even if Shami is declared fit, as the team looks to manage workloads ahead of the knockouts.
Possible Changes in Playing XI
If Rohit Sharma is unavailable, Shubman Gill and KL Rahul are expected to open. Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, and Rishabh Pant will form the middle order, while Hardik Pandya will provide balance as the all-rounder. The spin trio of Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, and Kuldeep Yadav is likely to remain unchanged, with Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana handling the pace attack.
India’s Probable XI vs New Zealand:
Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana.
With a place in the semifinals almost confirmed, India will aim to fine-tune their combinations while keeping an eye on player fitness ahead of the knockout stage.