India's campaign in the ICC Champions Trophy experienced a brief pause last week, as the team enjoyed a full week off following their intense victory over Pakistan. Their next match is against New Zealand in Dubai on Sunday, which will conclude the group stage. With qualification already secured, India is mindful that they will face their semifinal on Tuesday, allowing them less than two days to recover after their third group match.

Given the quick turnaround between these two games, fitness and recovery have become pressing concerns. Indian team assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate addressed inquiries regarding the strategies in place to keep the bowlers fresh, including the possibility of making adjustments to the lineup.

"We have conducted two rigorous training sessions, which have formed the basis of our preparation," ten Doeschate stated during the press conference. "Regarding our bench strength, our main focus is to ensure that our top players are available and in peak condition for the upcoming match."

Nonetheless, ten Doeschate acknowledged that this extended break, followed by two rapid matches, poses a challenge in terms of maintaining fitness and balance within the team.

"However, we do not wish to rest them for an additional two days. Therefore, to achieve the right balance, we may consider distributing the bowling responsibilities more evenly," remarked the former Dutch cricketer.

"At the same time, securing a victory against New Zealand is crucial. It is essential for us to maintain our momentum and aim to finish at the top of the group," he added. "Thus, we must carefully consider the balance between these two objectives."

Update on captain Rohit's fitness

India possesses bench bowling options in Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakravarthy, and Washington Sundar. However, ten Doeschate's press conference suggests that India may opt to utilize their sixth or seventh bowling choices more frequently to avoid overburdening any single bowler.

Additionally, the Dutch coach addressed the condition of Rohit Sharma, who had exited the field with a noticeable limp, indicating a potential hamstring concern. Although Rohit Sharma stated in the post-match interview after the victory against Pakistan that he was fit to play, ten Doeschate offered further clarification prior to the match against New Zealand.

"He's all right. It's an injury he's experienced before, so he knows how to manage it effectively,” he remarked.

There were speculations regarding Shubman Gill potentially making his ODI captaincy debut should Rohit be rested. However, based on ten Doeschate's comments, it seems that the vice-captain will have to wait for his chance to lead in an ODI.

While the pressure will be lessened for India in their encounter with the Kiwis, they will aim to sustain their momentum and continue their winning streak as they seek to achieve a 3-0 record in Dubai during the group stages, thereby entering the semifinals with confidence.

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