Rishabh Pant will likely return to the Indian playing XI as India host New Zealand in their last group-stage game of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The match in Dubai will be key to deciding the top spot in Group A. 

Rishabh Pant's Possible Entry

Rishabh Pant has not made an appearance in India's playing XI, with KL Rahul taking over wicketkeeping duties. Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate acknowledged the challenge of this situation, stating, "It's been very hard on Rishabh Pant not playing." Despite that, sources suggest that Pant may find himself part of today's squad, providing him an opportunity to impress.

KL Rahul's Role in Pant's Absence

During Pant's absence, KL Rahul took up the wicketkeeping role. Rahul has accepted the competition between him and Pant for the role of wicketkeeper-batsman in the ODI side, revealing that there is always an inclination for the captain and the coach to select one among them.

Match Significance

Both of these teams are already through to the semifinals, but depending on the outcome of this game, they would be facing respective opponents. In case of a win for India, they will face Australia in the semifinals, while the loss would result in a matchup against South Africa.

Historical Context

This is the first Champions Trophy encounter between India and New Zealand. Interestingly, the teams met in the 2000 ICC Knockouts final, which New Zealand won.

Pant's return, expected to happen soon, makes this match more interesting. The fans are keenly waiting to see how India will manage their playing XI. The match is set to be an exciting contest between two of the best teams.