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The much-anticipated clash between Bangladesh and New Zealand in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 kicked off today at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, but the Black Caps are without one of their key players, Daryl Mitchell. Notably, the Black Caps won the toss and opted to bowl first.
Reason behind Daryl Mitchell’s absence
As fans tuned in for this Group A encounter, New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner revealed at the toss that Mitchell has been sidelined by illness, forcing the team to shuffle their lineup. Mitchell, a linchpin in New Zealand’s batting and all-round setup, was notably absent from the playing XI when the team sheets were confirmed. The 33-year-old, known for his reliability in high-pressure situations, has fallen ill ahead of this crucial Champions Trophy fixture.
Mitchell’s absence comes at a pivotal moment in the tournament. With New Zealand looking to secure a strong position in Group A, losing a player of his caliber could test their depth. The exact nature of his illness hasn’t been disclosed, but it’s severe enough to rule him out of this high-stakes encounter against a spirited Bangladesh side.
Star batter replaces Mitchell
To fill the void left by Mitchell, New Zealand have turned to the versatile Rachin Ravindra. The 25-year-old all-rounder, who has been in scintillating form recently, brings both batting depth and handy spin bowling to the table. His inclusion adds flexibility to the lineup, allowing the Kiwis to adapt to the conditions in Rawalpindi, which have historically favored teams with balanced bowling options.
In addition to Ravindra’s inclusion, New Zealand made a second change to their XI. Fast bowler Kyle Jamieson has replaced Nathan Smith, signaling a tactical tweak in their pace attack.
Also READ: Mohammad Rizwan reveals reasons why Pakistan lost against India in Champions Trophy 2025
Playing XI of both teams:
New Zealand: Will Young, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Rachin Ravindra, Tom Latham (wk), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, William ORourke
Bangladesh: Tanzid Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Towhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Mahmudullah, Jaker Ali, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Nahid Rana, Mustafizur Rahman
