ISLAMABAD: Ahead of India’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025 match against New Zealand, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma was the only key batter to skip the net session due to a hamstring injury sustained during the game against Pakistan.
After their victory over Pakistan, the Indian players had their first training session at the International Cricket Council (ICC) Academy.
While everyone else participated in warm-up activities like football and running laps, Rohit refrained from any intense physical exercises.
According to the Times of India, he jogged gently under the supervision of Strength & Conditioning coach Soham Desai, but his movement was restricted due to a hamstring injury sustained during the Pakistan game.
Rohit did not face throwdowns but instead focused on shadow batting while having discussions with head coach Gautam Gambhir and the coaching staff.
Virat Kohli’s training
Meanwhile, Virat Kohli spent significant time facing spinners, including Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, and Ravindra Jadeja, and also practised with net bowlers for over 30 minutes in preparation for the New Zealand clash.
ALSO READ: ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Virat Kohli Set to Equal or Break Nine Records
Mohammed Shami was seen bowling at full intensity, swinging the ball both ways and testing Kohli with a few close calls. Harshit Rana and Arshdeep Singh also appeared focused and ready for the challenge.
Bowling coach Morne Morkel, who had briefly left the camp due to a personal emergency, rejoined the team just in time for the training session.
He was observed having an extensive conversation with head coach Gautam Gambhir while the players warmed up.
Shubman Gill, India’s standout performer in the tournament, was the only player absent from the practice session.
