The stage is set for an epic clash between India and New Zealand at the final group stage match of Group A in the Champions Trophy 2025. With both teams qualified for the semi-finals of the tournament, not much is on the line except to determine which side finishes at the top of the group. However, amidst much anticipation for the heated clash between these two team, Harshit Rana has been left out of the match and a mystery spinner will replace him, leaving the cricketing world wondering the reason behind this major change in the bowling unit.

Rohit Sharma drops a shocker during the toss

As Rohit Sharma and Mitchell Santner arrived on the pitch for the toss, fans had a sigh of relief that amidst widespread speculation skipper Rohit will play for India in the final group stage match. However, their relief could not last for long as Rohit announced that fast bowler Harshit will not play for India in this match and has been replaced by Chakravarthy in the team. With this replacement, India have opted to go for 4 spin options in the team spin Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel already in the playing XI.

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Rohit Sharma reveals why Harshit Rana has been left out of the playing XI

While announcing his playing XI, Rohit reasoned that Rana has been rested for the final group stage clash ahead of the vital semi-finals of the Champions Trophy 2025. Rana has been consistently playing matches since the T20I series against England. Therefore, a much-needed rest is crucial for the youngster.

“One change for us – Harshit has been rested, Varun is playing for us. It is all about bowling in partnerships, in both games we have combined to pick 19 wickets. Our spinners have restricted them well and then the seamers have got the wickets,” Rohit said during the toss.

India’s playing XI against New Zealand: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy

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