India’s coach Gautam Gambhir, skipper Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli during a practice session ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final cricket match between India and New Zealand, in Dubai, UAE, Saturday, March 8, 2025. (PTI Photo)
India vs New Zealand final preview: Why Gautam Gambhir, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli had a intense meeting on field before the Champions Trophy final
With the highly anticipated ICC Champions Trophy final against New Zealand looming, India’s preparations took an intriguing turn on Saturday afternoon. A relaxed training session was punctuated by a crucial meeting near the pitch, involving head coach Gautam Gambhir, captain Rohit Sharma, and star batsman Virat Kohli. Their animated discussion, marked by significant gestures, sparked curiosity, hinting at a potential strategic shift regarding the pitch and team composition.
Despite India’s familiarity with the dry Dubai pitch, the team faces a strategic puzzle. Rohit Sharma previously admitted to confusion about batting first or second against Australia, given the fresh pitch’s unpredictable behavior. This uncertainty persists for the final, exacerbated by recent dramatic changes in Dubai’s weather.
After weeks of pleasant temperatures and cool evenings, a sudden surge in heat has raised concerns about the pitch’s behavior. The warming conditions increase the likelihood of dew, potentially favoring the team batting second. This could force India to reconsider their successful four-spinner strategy, raising the question: “Why fix what isn’t broken?” The four-spinner approach has provided India with a significant advantage, both in bowling strength and tactical edge over New Zealand. (READ MORE)