India's preparations for their crucial Champions Trophy encounter against Pakistan hit a minor setback as wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant missed the team's practice session ahead of the match due to viral fever. Team update "Firstly, Rishabh is, I think, down with viral; that is why he did not come for practice," India vice-captain Shubman Gill told reporters during the pre-match press conference in Dubai. High-stakes battle Sunday's (February 23) clash carries additional significance as Pakistan, the defending champions, aim to keep their title defence alive, while India seek to strengthen their semi-final prospects. The match also offers India an opportunity to avenge their 180-run defeat in the 2017 Champions Trophy final. Pakistan currently hold a 3-2 advantage over India in Champions Trophy encounters, making this fixture particularly intriguing. Vice-captain's perspective Gill, speaking about his leadership role, emphasised maintaining team morale, particularly among non-playing members. "Those are the kinds of conversations that I have with them whenever I get the chance or if I see someone feeling a little low or lacking in something," he said. Playing conditions Addressing the Dubai wicket's characteristics, Gill noted the minimal dew factor during India's opening match against Bangladesh. He stressed the importance of strike rotation during the middle overs (11-40) under lights. "Definitely, we want to play aggressive and positive cricket, but that also depends on the wicket," Gill explained. "A 300 or 280 on this wicket would be a very good score for us, or if the wicket plays any differently, we might get 350 or 360 runs." Toss factor Regarding the toss's importance, Gill said: "We have seen that dew hasn't come that much. If dew comes, then toss is very important in a 50-over match. If we do not get dew, then I think it would not make much of a difference." The match begins at 02:30 pm (Indian Standard Time at the Dubai International Stadium.Original Article