<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/nitish-kumar-reddy" rel="dofollow">Nitish Reddy</a> was among a handful of Indian players who impressed everyone on the Australian tour Down Under. Making his Test debut at the Optus Stadium in Perth, Reddy slammed his maiden hundred three games later at the MCG, as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-social-media-bursts-into-joy-over-nitish-reddys-maiden-test-hundred-check-reactions-8572794" rel="dofollow">cricketing world went gaga over it</a>. Although everyone cheered for him, Reddy revealed he strived for validation from two people, one in the dressing room and one outside.</p>
<p>Reddy is an emerging star. After making the right noises in the domestic games in the lead-up to his IPL debut last season, where Reddy smoked 303 runs and picked three wickets in SRH&rsquo;s almost successful campaign, head coach Gautam Gambhir unleashed him onto the international scene. Following his T20I debut earlier, Reddy got his maiden chance in the Test series Down Under, grabbing the opportunity with both hands.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/jasprit-bumrah-nca-return-fuels-chances-of-his-early-ipl-2025-comeback-mumbai-indians-8873705" rel="dofollow">Jasprit Bumrah&rsquo;s NCA return fuels chances of his early IPL 2025 comeback</a></strong></p>
<p>Reddy shared shoulders with some of the best names in cricket the past year and narrated one of the inside stories during an hour-long podcast at PUMA India headquarters in Bengaluru.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&ldquo;Back in the locker room, he (Virat Kohli) once asked Sarfaraz (Khan), &lsquo;Sarfu, tera size kya hai?&rsquo; (Sarfaraz, what&rsquo;s your shoe size?), and he said, &lsquo;Nine.&rsquo; Then he turned to me, and I thought, &lsquo;Oh my god, I have to guess this correctly,&rsquo; because even if they weren&rsquo;t my size, I really wanted his shoes. I said, &lsquo;10,&rsquo; and he gave them to me. In the next match, I wore those shoes and scored a hundred!" Reddy revealed during a recent chat.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, detailing what happened inside the dressing room post his maiden Test hundred, Reddy said, &ldquo;Everyone in the dressing room came up and congratulated me, but I was just looking for one guy&mdash;hoping he&rsquo;d come and talk to me. When Virat bhai (Kohli) finally walked up and told me I had played a wonderful game, that moment itself was special for me. I was also scanning the stands for my father but couldn&rsquo;t find him. Later, I saw on the screen that he was crying.&rdquo;</p>
<h2>Conversation with Head</h2>
<p>Reddy plays with Australia superstar Travis Head at SRH in the IPL, with whom he will be <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-nitish-kumar-reddy-set-to-join-srh-after-clearing-fitness-test-8855150" rel="dofollow">back in action during the 18th season</a>, starting March 22. Revealing a conversation with the attacking batter sometime during the BGT, Reddy said Head tried to distract him during his stay at the crease.</p>
<p>&ldquo;Travis came up to me and said, &lsquo;Nitish, where are you going to party tonight?&rsquo;&mdash;knowing fully well that I wouldn&rsquo;t. Then he went on, &lsquo;Australia is such a great place. Melbourne is an amazing city, you have to go out and chill.&rsquo; He was just trying to distract me. I just told him, &lsquo;Okay, Travis, one day we&rsquo;ll both&nbsp;go and party!&rsquo; During another match, he was fielding at short leg and warned me, &lsquo;Nitish, if you hit me, I&rsquo;ll hit you when you bowl!&rdquo; Reddy said.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Cricket, Sports: Following his T20I debut earlier, Nitish Kumar Reddy got his maiden chance in the Test series Down Under, gabbing opportunity with both arms.

Nitish Reddy was among a handful of Indian players who impressed everyone on the Australian tour Down Under. Making his Test debut at the Optus Stadium in Perth, Reddy slammed his maiden hundred three games later at the MCG, as the cricketing world went gaga over it. Although everyone cheered for him, Reddy revealed he strived for validation from two people, one in the dressing room and one outside. Reddy is an emerging star. After making the right noises in the domestic games in the lead-up to his IPL debut last season, where Reddy smoked 303 runs and picked three wickets in SRH’s almost successful campaign, head coach Gautam Gambhir unleashed him onto the international scene. Following his T20I debut earlier, Reddy got his maiden chance in the Test series Down Under, grabbing the opportunity with both hands. Also read | Jasprit Bumrah’s NCA return fuels chances of his early IPL 2025 comeback Reddy shared shoulders with some of the best names in cricket the past year and narrated one of the inside stories during an hour-long podcast at PUMA India headquarters in Bengaluru. “Back in the locker room, he (Virat Kohli) once asked Sarfaraz (Khan), ‘Sarfu, tera size kya hai?’ (Sarfaraz, what’s your shoe size?), and he said, ‘Nine.’ Then he turned to me, and I thought, ‘Oh my god, I have to guess this correctly,’ because even if they weren’t my size, I really wanted his shoes. I said, ‘10,’ and he gave them to me. In the next match, I wore those shoes and scored a hundred!" Reddy revealed during a recent chat. Meanwhile, detailing what happened inside the dressing room post his maiden Test hundred, Reddy said, “Everyone in the dressing room came up and congratulated me, but I was just looking for one guy—hoping he’d come and talk to me. When Virat bhai (Kohli) finally walked up and told me I had played a wonderful game, that moment itself was special for me. I was also scanning the stands for my father but couldn’t find him. Later, I saw on the screen that he was crying.” Conversation with Head Reddy plays with Australia superstar Travis Head at SRH in the IPL, with whom he will be back in action during the 18th season, starting March 22. Revealing a conversation with the attacking batter sometime during the BGT, Reddy said Head tried to distract him during his stay at the crease. “Travis came up to me and said, ‘Nitish, where are you going to party tonight?’—knowing fully well that I wouldn’t. Then he went on, ‘Australia is such a great place. Melbourne is an amazing city, you have to go out and chill.’ He was just trying to distract me. I just told him, ‘Okay, Travis, one day we’ll both go and party!’ During another match, he was fielding at short leg and warned me, ‘Nitish, if you hit me, I’ll hit you when you bowl!” Reddy said. (With inputs from agencies)

‘I was looking for one guy…hoping he’d come and talk to me,’ Nitish Reddy recalls dressing room joy after MCG hundred

<p data-start="80" data-end="638">Sports careers can take fascinating turns, and Tanmay Srivastava&rsquo;s journey is a testament to that. While <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a>, who led India to victory in the 2008 ICC U19 World Cup, went on to become one of the finest batters in cricket history, many of his teammates from that squad did not find the same level of success in their playing careers. As Kohli gears up for the 2025 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/indian-premier-league">Indian Premier League</a> (IPL) season with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/royal-challengers-bangalore">Royal Challengers Bengaluru</a> (RCB), his former U19 teammate Tanmay Srivastava is set to begin a new chapter&mdash;as an umpire in the very same league.</p>
<p data-start="640" data-end="946">According to a report in the Times of India, Tanmay, now 35, has secured an umpiring role in the IPL. Interestingly, he was India's highest run-scorer in the final of the 2008 U19 World Cup. His early promise earned him a contract with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/punjab-kings">Punjab Kings</a>, but his playing career did not take off as expected.</p>
<p data-start="948" data-end="1167">"I realised that was the best player I could be," Tanmay was quoted saying to TOI. "I was nowhere close to playing in the IPL. I had to decide whether to prolong my playing career or start a longer, more successful second innings."</p>
<p data-start="948" data-end="1167"><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/exclusive-ipl-2025-hopefully-i-can-be-half-the-player-he-was-delhi-capitals-tristan-stubbs-on-praise-from-ab-de-villiers-8869899">Exclusive | IPL 2025: 'Hopefully, I can be half the player he was&rsquo; &ndash; Delhi Capitals' Tristan Stubbs on praise from AB de Villiers</a></strong></p>
<p data-start="1169" data-end="1489">At 30, while still captaining the Uttarakhand team after previously representing Uttar Pradesh, Tanmay made the tough decision to step away from playing. Wanting to stay involved in cricket, he explored alternative roles. Although he has yet to be assigned an on-field umpiring position in the IPL, he remains hopeful.</p>
<p data-start="1169" data-end="1489"><strong>See the post here:</strong></p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">A true player never leaves the field&mdash;just changes the game. <br>Wishing Tanmay Srivastava the best as he dons a new hat with the same passion!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPCA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UPCA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PrideOfUP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PrideOfUP</a> <a href="https://t.co/wrRoW31OG2">pic.twitter.com/wrRoW31OG2</a></p>
&mdash; UPCA (@UPCACricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/UPCACricket/status/1901614578997629222?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2025</a></blockquote>
<p data-start="1169" data-end="1489"><strong>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</strong></p>
<p data-start="1491" data-end="1579">He still keeps in touch with Kohli and may cross paths with him during the tournament.&nbsp;"I&rsquo;m still in touch with Virat, but I had to make a practical decision for my future," he said.</p>
<p data-start="1680" data-end="1995">Seeking guidance, Tanmay approached Rajiv Shukla with his plans. "He was surprised because I was only 30 at the time. We discussed possible options. I completed my Level 2 coaching course at the NCA but realised the best I could become was a fielding coach. That&rsquo;s when I decided to pursue umpiring," he revealed.</p>
<h2 data-start="1680" data-end="1995">'Studying for umpiring is tough'</h2>
<p data-start="1997" data-end="2209">Determined to succeed in his new path, Tanmay studied rigorously for the umpiring exams while balancing other cricket-related roles, such as talent scouting for RCB and coaching at the National Cricket Academy.&nbsp;"Studying for umpiring is tough. I would stay up late at night, going through the laws and their applications," he explained.</p>
<p data-start="2340" data-end="2511">He also highlighted the growing emphasis on bringing younger former players into umpiring, rather than relying solely on older officials with only theoretical knowledge.&nbsp;"The board is encouraging young players to take up umpiring rather than depending too much on older people with bookish knowledge," he added.</p>
<p data-start="2658" data-end="2826" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node="">Now, as the IPL 2025 season unfolds, Tanmay Srivastava is ready to embrace his new role, proving that the love for the game can lead to unexpected yet fulfilling paths.</p>

Sports, Cricket: Interestingly, he was India's highest run-scorer in the final of the 2008 U19 World Cup. His early promise earned him a contract with Punjab Kings

Sports careers can take fascinating turns, and Tanmay Srivastava’s journey is a testament to that. While Virat Kohli, who led India to victory in the 2008 ICC U19 World Cup, went on to become one of the finest batters in cricket history, many of his teammates from that squad did not find the same level of success in their playing careers. As Kohli gears up for the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), his former U19 teammate Tanmay Srivastava is set to begin a new chapter—as an umpire in the very same league. According to a report in the Times of India, Tanmay, now 35, has secured an umpiring role in the IPL. Interestingly, he was India's highest run-scorer in the final of the 2008 U19 World Cup. His early promise earned him a contract with Punjab Kings, but his playing career did not take off as expected. "I realised that was the best player I could be," Tanmay was quoted saying to TOI. "I was nowhere close to playing in the IPL. I had to decide whether to prolong my playing career or start a longer, more successful second innings." Also Read: Exclusive | IPL 2025: 'Hopefully, I can be half the player he was’ – Delhi Capitals' Tristan Stubbs on praise from AB de Villiers At 30, while still captaining the Uttarakhand team after previously representing Uttar Pradesh, Tanmay made the tough decision to step away from playing. Wanting to stay involved in cricket, he explored alternative roles. Although he has yet to be assigned an on-field umpiring position in the IPL, he remains hopeful. See the post here: A true player never leaves the field—just changes the game. Wishing Tanmay Srivastava the best as he dons a new hat with the same passion!#UPCA #IPL #UP #PrideOfUP pic.twitter.com/wrRoW31OG2 — UPCA (@UPCACricket) March 17, 2025 He still keeps in touch with Kohli and may cross paths with him during the tournament. "I’m still in touch with Virat, but I had to make a practical decision for my future," he said. Seeking guidance, Tanmay approached Rajiv Shukla with his plans. "He was surprised because I was only 30 at the time. We discussed possible options. I completed my Level 2 coaching course at the NCA but realised the best I could become was a fielding coach. That’s when I decided to pursue umpiring," he revealed. 'Studying for umpiring is tough' Determined to succeed in his new path, Tanmay studied rigorously for the umpiring exams while balancing other cricket-related roles, such as talent scouting for RCB and coaching at the National Cricket Academy. "Studying for umpiring is tough. I would stay up late at night, going through the laws and their applications," he explained. He also highlighted the growing emphasis on bringing younger former players into umpiring, rather than relying solely on older officials with only theoretical knowledge. "The board is encouraging young players to take up umpiring rather than depending too much on older people with bookish knowledge," he added. Now, as the IPL 2025 season unfolds, Tanmay Srivastava is ready to embrace his new role, proving that the love for the game can lead to unexpected yet fulfilling paths.

IPL 2025 | Once a teammate of Virat Kohli in U19 World Cup, Tanmay Srivastava now joins IPL as umpire

<p data-start="121" data-end="478">The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/board-of-control-for-cricket-in-india">Board of Control for Cricket in India</a> (BCCI) is reportedly exploring a more flexible approach to its policy regarding players&rsquo; families accompanying them on international tours. According to BCCI sources, players who wish to have their families with them for an extended period overseas may soon be able to apply for special permission from the board.</p>
<p data-start="480" data-end="826">This potential policy shift comes after Indian cricket stalwart <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a> highlighted the emotional toll of prolonged tours during the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) Innovation Lab Indian Sports Summit. Kohli emphasised the importance of a strong support system, saying that no player wants to 'sit alone and sulk' after a poor performance.</p>
<p data-start="480" data-end="826"><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-we-are-here-to-entertain-and-most-importantly-to-win-says-pbks-head-coach-ricky-ponting-8866442">IPL 2025 | 'We are here to entertain and, most importantly, to win', says PBKS head coach Ricky Ponting</a></strong></p>
<p data-start="828" data-end="1174">"It is very difficult to explain how grounding it is to return to your family after something intense happens on the field," Kohli said, as quoted by ESPNCricinfo. "People don&rsquo;t fully understand the value of that. It&rsquo;s disappointing when external voices suggest keeping families away as if they have any control over what happens on the field."</p>
<h2 data-start="828" data-end="1174">'Having family life is essential'</h2>
<p data-start="1176" data-end="1519">Kohli further stressed that he never wants to miss an opportunity to spend time with his loved ones. &ldquo;Life is constantly evolving, and having a normal family life is essential. After fulfilling my professional responsibilities, coming back to my family brings me immense pleasure. I would never pass up the chance to be with them,&rdquo; he added.</p>
<p data-start="1521" data-end="1775">Currently, the BCCI allows limited family presence on tours, with restrictions varying based on the series, venue, and schedule. However, as discussions around mental well-being in sports gain momentum, the board appears to be reconsidering its stance.</p>
<p data-start="1777" data-end="2126">While no official confirmation has been made, sources suggest that under the proposed framework, players would need to submit requests to the BCCI for approval. With the international cricket calendar packed with major <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/icc">ICC</a> events and bilateral series, this change could offer players a better balance between their professional and personal lives.</p>
<p data-start="1777" data-end="2126"><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Cricket, Sports: Kohli emphasised the importance of a strong support system, saying that no player wants to 'sit alone and sulk' after a poor performance

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly exploring a more flexible approach to its policy regarding players’ families accompanying them on international tours. According to BCCI sources, players who wish to have their families with them for an extended period overseas may soon be able to apply for special permission from the board. This potential policy shift comes after Indian cricket stalwart Virat Kohli highlighted the emotional toll of prolonged tours during the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) Innovation Lab Indian Sports Summit. Kohli emphasised the importance of a strong support system, saying that no player wants to 'sit alone and sulk' after a poor performance. Also Read: IPL 2025 | 'We are here to entertain and, most importantly, to win', says PBKS head coach Ricky Ponting "It is very difficult to explain how grounding it is to return to your family after something intense happens on the field," Kohli said, as quoted by ESPNCricinfo. "People don’t fully understand the value of that. It’s disappointing when external voices suggest keeping families away as if they have any control over what happens on the field." 'Having family life is essential' Kohli further stressed that he never wants to miss an opportunity to spend time with his loved ones. “Life is constantly evolving, and having a normal family life is essential. After fulfilling my professional responsibilities, coming back to my family brings me immense pleasure. I would never pass up the chance to be with them,” he added. Currently, the BCCI allows limited family presence on tours, with restrictions varying based on the series, venue, and schedule. However, as discussions around mental well-being in sports gain momentum, the board appears to be reconsidering its stance. While no official confirmation has been made, sources suggest that under the proposed framework, players would need to submit requests to the BCCI for approval. With the international cricket calendar packed with major ICC events and bilateral series, this change could offer players a better balance between their professional and personal lives. (With inputs from agencies)

BCCI considering flexible policy on players’ families travel during tours: Reports

<p data-pm-slice="1 1 []"><span>The Indian Premier League is back, and as always, the buzz around the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/royal-challengers-bangalore">Royal Challengers Bengaluru</a> (RCB) is electrifying. With a revamped squad featuring a formidable batting lineup and a strengthened bowling attack, the perennial underachievers are once again aiming for the elusive title. However, one lingering question remains&mdash;does RCB have the firepower to go all the way?</span></p>
<p>De Villiers, who spent 11 seasons with RCB, believes that the team's strategic moves during the player auction have bolstered their chances. He said, "I really think they made some incredibly good moves in the auction. It's an incredibly good, balanced team." <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ab-de-villiers">AB de Villiers</a>, while addressing the media ahead of the 18th season of the TATA IPL on Star Sports Press Room on Explosive Rankings, emphasised the depth of the batting lineup, noting the blend of power and control, and expressed confidence in the team's potential to clinch the title this year. ​</p>
<p><span>&lsquo;Yes, they might be lacking an X-factor spinner, but I don't see it as a massive problem,&rsquo; he said. &lsquo;The team has a wonderful balance this time, and that is going to be their biggest strength. Their real challenge will be navigating their tricky schedule, hopping across different venues. That will test their adaptability more than anything else."</span></p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/meet-new-zealand-star-tim-seifert-who-hit-shaheen-shah-afridi-for-four-sixes-in-an-over-as-nz-down-pak-in-2nd-t20i-8864586">Meet New Zealand star Tim Seifert, who hit Shaheen Shah Afridi for four sixes in an over as NZ down Pak in 2nd T20I</a></strong></p>
<p><span>A significant change for RCB this season is the appointment of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rajat-patidar">Rajat Patidar</a> as the new captain. De Villiers acknowledged the challenges Patidar might face, particularly the pressure of stepping into the shoes of former leaders like Virat Kohli and Faf du Plessis. He advised Patidar to remain authentic in his leadership approach, saying, "</span><span>His challenge will be trusting himself. He must not try to captain like Virat or Faf but lead in his own way. Use the experience around him, but always stay true to who he is.&rsquo;"</span></p>
<p><span>Virat Kohli's role remains crucial for RCB. Despite stepping down from T20 internationals, De Villiers believes Kohli has 'plenty left in the tank', especially with the current batting lineup. He envisions Kohli as the 'batting captain', guiding the innings with his experience and game awareness. De Villiers also addressed external criticisms of Kohli's strike rate, suggesting that while outside opinions can influence any player, Kohli's focus and commitment on the field remain unwavering. ​</span></p>
<p>Interestingly, De Villiers also shared a light-hearted anecdote about the popular RCB chant 'Ee Sala Cup Namde', which translates to "This year, the cup is ours". He revealed that Kohli had messaged him, requesting him to refrain from using the phrase, perhaps to avoid jinxing their chances. De Villiers humorously recounted, "I said 'Ee Sala Cup Namde' somewhere and immediately got a text from Virat to not use it anymore."&nbsp;</p>
<h2>'Rickelton-Rohit partnership might light up Wankhede'</h2>
<p><span>Meanwhile, </span><span>the Mumbai Indians are set to unleash a new weapon in South African batter Ryan Rickelton. Slotted to open alongside Rohit Sharma, the left-hander is in the form of his life and could be one of the most dangerous batters this season. &lsquo;Rickelton and Rohit&mdash;the double R&rsquo;s,&rsquo; AB de Villiers quipped. &lsquo;That&rsquo;s a partnership that could light up Wankhede this season. Mumbai loves an explosive overseas opener, and Rickelton fits the bill perfectly."</span></p>
<p><span>The IPL is known for producing young breakout stars, and former India cricketer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/aakash-chopra">Aakash Chopra</a> believes names like Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, and Suryakumar Yadav could take their performances to even greater heights this season. However, he pointed out, &lsquo;T20 is a format designed for failure. You will fail more than you succeed. The challenge is to keep evolving."</span></p>
<p><span>On the other hand, Kolkata Knight Riders are dealing with some key departures, including Mitchell Starc and Phil Salt. They have tried to make up for it with Spencer Johnson and other additions, but whether they can replicate last season&rsquo;s success remains to be seen. "The team is still strong, but their biggest challenge will be overcoming internal conflicts and finding the right balance," Chopra remarked.</span></p>
<p><span>As the season unfolds, the stage is set for an unforgettable IPL. Will RCB finally lift the trophy? Can Mumbai&rsquo;s new opening duo set the tournament alight? And will Rajat Patidar&rsquo;s leadership prove to be the X-factor for Bengaluru? One thing is certain&mdash;this season promises drama, intensity, and moments of pure cricketing brilliance.</span></p>

Sports, Cricket: AB de Villiers, who spent 11 seasons with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, believes that the team's strategic moves during the auction have bolstered their chances

The Indian Premier League is back, and as always, the buzz around the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is electrifying. With a revamped squad featuring a formidable batting lineup and a strengthened bowling attack, the perennial underachievers are once again aiming for the elusive title. However, one lingering question remains—does RCB have the firepower to go all the way? De Villiers, who spent 11 seasons with RCB, believes that the team's strategic moves during the player auction have bolstered their chances. He said, "I really think they made some incredibly good moves in the auction. It's an incredibly good, balanced team." AB de Villiers, while addressing the media ahead of the 18th season of the TATA IPL on Star Sports Press Room on Explosive Rankings, emphasised the depth of the batting lineup, noting the blend of power and control, and expressed confidence in the team's potential to clinch the title this year. ‘Yes, they might be lacking an X-factor spinner, but I don't see it as a massive problem,’ he said. ‘The team has a wonderful balance this time, and that is going to be their biggest strength. Their real challenge will be navigating their tricky schedule, hopping across different venues. That will test their adaptability more than anything else." Also Read: Meet New Zealand star Tim Seifert, who hit Shaheen Shah Afridi for four sixes in an over as NZ down Pak in 2nd T20I A significant change for RCB this season is the appointment of Rajat Patidar as the new captain. De Villiers acknowledged the challenges Patidar might face, particularly the pressure of stepping into the shoes of former leaders like Virat Kohli and Faf du Plessis. He advised Patidar to remain authentic in his leadership approach, saying, "His challenge will be trusting himself. He must not try to captain like Virat or Faf but lead in his own way. Use the experience around him, but always stay true to who he is.’" Virat Kohli's role remains crucial for RCB. Despite stepping down from T20 internationals, De Villiers believes Kohli has 'plenty left in the tank', especially with the current batting lineup. He envisions Kohli as the 'batting captain', guiding the innings with his experience and game awareness. De Villiers also addressed external criticisms of Kohli's strike rate, suggesting that while outside opinions can influence any player, Kohli's focus and commitment on the field remain unwavering. Interestingly, De Villiers also shared a light-hearted anecdote about the popular RCB chant 'Ee Sala Cup Namde', which translates to "This year, the cup is ours". He revealed that Kohli had messaged him, requesting him to refrain from using the phrase, perhaps to avoid jinxing their chances. De Villiers humorously recounted, "I said 'Ee Sala Cup Namde' somewhere and immediately got a text from Virat to not use it anymore." 'Rickelton-Rohit partnership might light up Wankhede' Meanwhile, the Mumbai Indians are set to unleash a new weapon in South African batter Ryan Rickelton. Slotted to open alongside Rohit Sharma, the left-hander is in the form of his life and could be one of the most dangerous batters this season. ‘Rickelton and Rohit—the double R’s,’ AB de Villiers quipped. ‘That’s a partnership that could light up Wankhede this season. Mumbai loves an explosive overseas opener, and Rickelton fits the bill perfectly." The IPL is known for producing young breakout stars, and former India cricketer Aakash Chopra believes names like Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, and Suryakumar Yadav could take their performances to even greater heights this season. However, he pointed out, ‘T20 is a format designed for failure. You will fail more than you succeed. The challenge is to keep evolving." On the other hand, Kolkata Knight Riders are dealing with some key departures, including Mitchell Starc and Phil Salt. They have tried to make up for it with Spencer Johnson and other additions, but whether they can replicate last season’s success remains to be seen. "The team is still strong, but their biggest challenge will be overcoming internal conflicts and finding the right balance," Chopra remarked. As the season unfolds, the stage is set for an unforgettable IPL. Will RCB finally lift the trophy? Can Mumbai’s new opening duo set the tournament alight? And will Rajat Patidar’s leadership prove to be the X-factor for Bengaluru? One thing is certain—this season promises drama, intensity, and moments of pure cricketing brilliance.

IPL 2025: AB de Villiers reveals Virat Kohli’s stance on ‘Ee Sala Cup Namde’ chant

<p>The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/indian-premier-league">Indian Premier League</a> (IPL) is back for its 18th edition, and for fans of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), there is a growing sense of destiny attached to the number 18. The most loyal supporters of the franchise know this number all too well&mdash;it is the jersey number of their talisman, Virat Kohli.</p>
<p>For over a decade, Kohli has carried RCB on his shoulders, often being the lone warrior in a team that has struggled to cross the final hurdle. As IPL 2025 kicks off, the question arises once again: could this be the year RCB finally breaks its long-standing curse and lifts the coveted trophy?</p>
<h2>RCB&rsquo;s journey: The eternal bridesmaids</h2>
<p>Since the inception of the IPL in 2008, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/royal-challengers-bangalore">Royal Challengers Bangalore</a> has been one of the most followed and passionately supported teams. Based in the cricket-mad city of Bangalore (now Bengaluru), the team has had everything&mdash;superstars, a strong fan base, financial backing, and electric home support at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Yet, the one thing that has remained elusive is the IPL trophy.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-eye-catching-net-worth-can-buy-92-bugatti-veyrons-waterfront-palace-in-sydney-and-more-8864326">Virat Kohli's Eye-Catching Net Worth: Can buy 92 Bugatti Veyrons, waterfront palace in Sydney and more</a></strong></p>
<p>RCB has reached the final three times&mdash;2009, 2011, and 2016&mdash;only to fall short on each occasion. The 2009 final saw them lose to the Deccan Chargers, despite a solid campaign. In 2011, they were blown away by Chennai Super Kings and a rampaging MS Dhoni-led squad. But the most painful defeat arguably came in 2016, when <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a> had a dream season, scoring a record-breaking 973 runs, only for RCB to stumble in the final against Sunrisers Hyderabad. That season remains one of the biggest 'what-ifs' in IPL history.</p>
<p>Over the years, RCB has been home to some of the biggest names in T20 cricket&mdash;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/chris-gayle">Chris Gayle</a>, AB de Villiers, Glenn Maxwell, Faf du Plessis, and of course, Kohli. Despite their individual brilliance, the team has often lacked balance, particularly in the bowling department. The 'RCB curse' has become a running joke among IPL fans, but 2025 might just be the year things change.</p>
<h2>Bengaluru's love affair with cricket</h2>
<p>Bengaluru has always been a cricketing powerhouse. The city has produced legends like Rahul Dravid, Anil Kumble, and Javagal Srinath. The Chinnaswamy Stadium is one of the most iconic venues in India, known for its electric atmosphere and high-scoring games due to its short boundaries. Yet, despite the love for cricket in the city, RCB has not been able to deliver a title to its passionate supporters.</p>
<p>Bengaluru's other major franchise, the Bengaluru Bulls in the Pro Kabaddi League, has tasted success, winning the PKL title in 2018. This has made RCB&rsquo;s lack of silverware even more glaring. However, if there&rsquo;s one thing common between RCB fans and Bengaluru's sporting culture, it&rsquo;s resilience. The city continues to rally behind its team, no matter how many heartbreaks they endure.</p>
<h2>The symbolism of 18</h2>
<p>The number 18 holds a special place in RCB&rsquo;s history, primarily because of Virat Kohli. He has worn this number throughout his career, both for India and RCB. The 18th edition of the IPL, therefore, feels symbolic&mdash;it&rsquo;s as if the cricketing universe is aligning for Kohli and RCB to finally lift the trophy.</p>
<p>Kohli, who stepped down as RCB captain after the 2021 season, remains the heart and soul of the team. Even without the armband, he continues to be their biggest match-winner and emotional leader. Could IPL 2025 be the perfect script for Kohli to finally lift the one trophy that has eluded him?</p>
<h2>Destiny or just another year?</h2>
<p>While numbers and symbolism make for great narratives, IPL is won on the field, not in theories. Every season, RCB starts with hope, and every season, their fans are left heartbroken. Yet, this time, there is an added element of destiny&mdash;the 18th edition, Kohli&rsquo;s 18, and possibly his last few seasons in the IPL.</p>
<p>If there was ever a time for RCB to rise, it is now. The ghosts of the past still linger, but cricket is a game of moments. If they can seize theirs, IPL 2025 might just be the year Bengaluru finally erupts in celebration. Will the number 18 bring luck, or will it just be another painful chapter in RCB&rsquo;s history? The next few months will tell.</p>

Sports, Cricket: As IPL 2025 kicks off, the question arises once again: Could this be the year RCB finally breaks its long-standing curse and lifts the coveted trophy?

The Indian Premier League (IPL) is back for its 18th edition, and for fans of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), there is a growing sense of destiny attached to the number 18. The most loyal supporters of the franchise know this number all too well—it is the jersey number of their talisman, Virat Kohli. For over a decade, Kohli has carried RCB on his shoulders, often being the lone warrior in a team that has struggled to cross the final hurdle. As IPL 2025 kicks off, the question arises once again: could this be the year RCB finally breaks its long-standing curse and lifts the coveted trophy? RCB’s journey: The eternal bridesmaids Since the inception of the IPL in 2008, Royal Challengers Bangalore has been one of the most followed and passionately supported teams. Based in the cricket-mad city of Bangalore (now Bengaluru), the team has had everything—superstars, a strong fan base, financial backing, and electric home support at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Yet, the one thing that has remained elusive is the IPL trophy. Also Read: Virat Kohli's Eye-Catching Net Worth: Can buy 92 Bugatti Veyrons, waterfront palace in Sydney and more RCB has reached the final three times—2009, 2011, and 2016—only to fall short on each occasion. The 2009 final saw them lose to the Deccan Chargers, despite a solid campaign. In 2011, they were blown away by Chennai Super Kings and a rampaging MS Dhoni-led squad. But the most painful defeat arguably came in 2016, when Virat Kohli had a dream season, scoring a record-breaking 973 runs, only for RCB to stumble in the final against Sunrisers Hyderabad. That season remains one of the biggest 'what-ifs' in IPL history. Over the years, RCB has been home to some of the biggest names in T20 cricket—Chris Gayle, AB de Villiers, Glenn Maxwell, Faf du Plessis, and of course, Kohli. Despite their individual brilliance, the team has often lacked balance, particularly in the bowling department. The 'RCB curse' has become a running joke among IPL fans, but 2025 might just be the year things change. Bengaluru's love affair with cricket Bengaluru has always been a cricketing powerhouse. The city has produced legends like Rahul Dravid, Anil Kumble, and Javagal Srinath. The Chinnaswamy Stadium is one of the most iconic venues in India, known for its electric atmosphere and high-scoring games due to its short boundaries. Yet, despite the love for cricket in the city, RCB has not been able to deliver a title to its passionate supporters. Bengaluru's other major franchise, the Bengaluru Bulls in the Pro Kabaddi League, has tasted success, winning the PKL title in 2018. This has made RCB’s lack of silverware even more glaring. However, if there’s one thing common between RCB fans and Bengaluru's sporting culture, it’s resilience. The city continues to rally behind its team, no matter how many heartbreaks they endure. The symbolism of 18 The number 18 holds a special place in RCB’s history, primarily because of Virat Kohli. He has worn this number throughout his career, both for India and RCB. The 18th edition of the IPL, therefore, feels symbolic—it’s as if the cricketing universe is aligning for Kohli and RCB to finally lift the trophy. Kohli, who stepped down as RCB captain after the 2021 season, remains the heart and soul of the team. Even without the armband, he continues to be their biggest match-winner and emotional leader. Could IPL 2025 be the perfect script for Kohli to finally lift the one trophy that has eluded him? Destiny or just another year? While numbers and symbolism make for great narratives, IPL is won on the field, not in theories. Every season, RCB starts with hope, and every season, their fans are left heartbroken. Yet, this time, there is an added element of destiny—the 18th edition, Kohli’s 18, and possibly his last few seasons in the IPL. If there was ever a time for RCB to rise, it is now. The ghosts of the past still linger, but cricket is a game of moments. If they can seize theirs, IPL 2025 might just be the year Bengaluru finally erupts in celebration. Will the number 18 bring luck, or will it just be another painful chapter in RCB’s history? The next few months will tell.

IPL 2025 | 18 years, number 18 (Kohli), and RCB’s championship dreams – Will it all align?

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">One of the greatest cricketers of his generation, India&rsquo;s Virat Kohli has seen his stock increase in recent years as he continues to flourish on the field.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">With a staggering fan following of more than 270 million followers, the Indian cricketer has been earning millions which has seen him become one of the highest-paid athletes in the world.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">His wealth is so much that he can buy a whopping 92 Bugatti Veyrons or a waterfront palace in Sydney.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">So what amount does the former India captain pocket? Let us decode in detail.</p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Virat Kohli's net worth</strong></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">According to a report from Sportskeeda, Virat has a whopping net worth of 10.05 billion rupees ($121 million) as of 2024.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">This includes money from his cricket performance and related bonuses while a major share comes from his endorsements and advertisements.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Kohli is a Grade A+ player under the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), earning approximately INR 70 million (around $850,000) annually from his national contract.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">On the other hand, he receives a big match fee for playing with Team India.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">As revealed in his contract, he earns INR 15 lakhs ($17,000) per Test matches, INR 6 lakhs ($6,900) for One Day Internationals (ODIs) and INR 3 lakhs ($3,450) for T20I matches. The amount does not include bonuses that came after winning the T20 World Cup in 2024 and the Champions Trophy in 2025.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">When it comes to the Indian Premier League (IPL), he earns a remarkable INR 210 million ($1.4 million) for eight weeks of action. This amount does not include bonuses and other related dividends.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/know-why-bcci-has-asked-all-ten-ipl-captains-to-gather-in-mumbai-ahead-of-ipl-2025-8863368" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Know why BCCI has asked all ten IPL captains to gather ahead of IPL 2025</a></strong></p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Virat in the world of business</strong></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Virat owns a fashion label called Wrogn, which has gained popularity over the years. He has invested in a chain of gyms named Chisel and co-owns a restaurant chain called One8 Commune. Additionally, he is involved in several startups and has invested in tech companies and other ventures.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Virat owns a luxurious apartment in Mumbai's Worli area, which he bought in 2016 for around INR 340 million ($3.9 million).</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The former RCB captain also has a house in the upmarket DLF Phase-1 area in Gurugram, which he bought in 2015 for around INR 800 million ($9.23 million).</p>

Sports, Cricket: One of the greatest cricketers of his generation, India’s Virat Kohli has seen his stock increase in recent years as he continues to flourish on the field.

One of the greatest cricketers of his generation, India’s Virat Kohli has seen his stock increase in recent years as he continues to flourish on the field. With a staggering fan following of more than 270 million followers, the Indian cricketer has been earning millions which has seen him become one of the highest-paid athletes in the world. His wealth is so much that he can buy a whopping 92 Bugatti Veyrons or a waterfront palace in Sydney. So what amount does the former India captain pocket? Let us decode in detail. Virat Kohli's net worth According to a report from Sportskeeda, Virat has a whopping net worth of 10.05 billion rupees ($121 million) as of 2024. This includes money from his cricket performance and related bonuses while a major share comes from his endorsements and advertisements. Kohli is a Grade A+ player under the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), earning approximately INR 70 million (around $850,000) annually from his national contract. On the other hand, he receives a big match fee for playing with Team India. As revealed in his contract, he earns INR 15 lakhs ($17,000) per Test matches, INR 6 lakhs ($6,900) for One Day Internationals (ODIs) and INR 3 lakhs ($3,450) for T20I matches. The amount does not include bonuses that came after winning the T20 World Cup in 2024 and the Champions Trophy in 2025. When it comes to the Indian Premier League (IPL), he earns a remarkable INR 210 million ($1.4 million) for eight weeks of action. This amount does not include bonuses and other related dividends. ALSO READ | Know why BCCI has asked all ten IPL captains to gather ahead of IPL 2025 Virat in the world of business Virat owns a fashion label called Wrogn, which has gained popularity over the years. He has invested in a chain of gyms named Chisel and co-owns a restaurant chain called One8 Commune. Additionally, he is involved in several startups and has invested in tech companies and other ventures. Virat owns a luxurious apartment in Mumbai's Worli area, which he bought in 2016 for around INR 340 million ($3.9 million). The former RCB captain also has a house in the upmarket DLF Phase-1 area in Gurugram, which he bought in 2015 for around INR 800 million ($9.23 million).

Virat Kohli's eye-popping net worth: Can buy 92 Bugatti Veyrons, waterfront palace in Sydney and more

<p data-start="87" data-end="727">Star Indian batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a> has emphasised the importance of having families accompany players on team India&rsquo;s tours, saying that their presence helps maintain balance and normalcy, particularly during challenging times.</p>
<p data-start="87" data-end="727">His comments follow the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/board-of-control-for-cricket-in-india">Board of Control for Cricket in India</a>&rsquo;s (BCCI) recent directive limiting players&rsquo; family time on tours after India's 3-1 defeat to Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The new rules allow players&rsquo; immediate families, partners, and children to join them for only 14 days after the first two weeks of a tour exceeding 45 days, while shorter tours permit family presence for up to a week.</p>
<p data-start="729" data-end="1087">Speaking at the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) Innovation Lab Indian Sports Summit ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, Kohli expressed his disappointment over the restrictions. "It is very difficult to explain to people how grounding it is to come back to your family after experiencing something intense," he said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.</p>
<p data-start="729" data-end="1087"><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/wpl-2025-meg-lanning-the-champion-who-still-waits-for-a-wpl-trophy-8857779">WPL 2025 | Meg Lanning: The champion who still waits for a WPL trophy</a></strong></p>
<p data-start="1089" data-end="1347">Kohli believes that many do not understand the immense value families bring to players. "I feel quite disappointed because people who have no control over what happens are drawn into conversations, and it's suggested they should be kept away," he remarked.</p>
<p data-start="1349" data-end="1643">Highlighting the emotional impact of the game, he added, "No player wants to sit alone and sulk after a poor performance. I want to be able to feel normal. Your game is a responsibility&mdash;you fulfill it, and then you return to life. Having family around allows you to experience that normalcy."</p>
<h2 data-start="1349" data-end="1643">King Kohli gears up for IPL</h2>
<p data-start="1645" data-end="2004">Kohli recently played a pivotal role in India&rsquo;s ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> win, finishing as the team&rsquo;s second-highest run-scorer and fifth overall in the tournament. He made 218 runs in five matches at an average of 54.50, including a match-winning 100* against Pakistan while chasing 242 and a crucial 84 off 98 balls against Australia in the semi-final.</p>
<p data-start="2006" data-end="2337">Now gearing up for IPL 2025, Kohli will be a key figure for RCB, who begin their campaign against defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on March 22 at Eden Gardens. The legendary batter, IPL&rsquo;s all-time leading run-scorer with 8,004 runs in 252 matches, will be eyeing his maiden IPL title alongside setting new records.</p>
<p data-start="2339" data-end="2673">In IPL 2024, Kohli dominated with the Orange Cap, scoring 741 runs at an average of 61.75 and a striking rate of 154.69. His stellar season included a century, five fifties, and 38 sixes, leading RCB to a remarkable turnaround from just one win in their first eight matches to securing a playoff spot with six consecutive victories.</p>
<p data-start="2675" data-end="2820" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node=""><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Sports, Cricket: Star India batter Virat Kohli expressed his disappointment with the BCCI's new rule restricting presence of families during team India's tours

Star Indian batter Virat Kohli has emphasised the importance of having families accompany players on team India’s tours, saying that their presence helps maintain balance and normalcy, particularly during challenging times. His comments follow the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) recent directive limiting players’ family time on tours after India's 3-1 defeat to Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The new rules allow players’ immediate families, partners, and children to join them for only 14 days after the first two weeks of a tour exceeding 45 days, while shorter tours permit family presence for up to a week. Speaking at the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) Innovation Lab Indian Sports Summit ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, Kohli expressed his disappointment over the restrictions. "It is very difficult to explain to people how grounding it is to come back to your family after experiencing something intense," he said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. Also Read: WPL 2025 | Meg Lanning: The champion who still waits for a WPL trophy Kohli believes that many do not understand the immense value families bring to players. "I feel quite disappointed because people who have no control over what happens are drawn into conversations, and it's suggested they should be kept away," he remarked. Highlighting the emotional impact of the game, he added, "No player wants to sit alone and sulk after a poor performance. I want to be able to feel normal. Your game is a responsibility—you fulfill it, and then you return to life. Having family around allows you to experience that normalcy." King Kohli gears up for IPL Kohli recently played a pivotal role in India’s ICC Champions Trophy win, finishing as the team’s second-highest run-scorer and fifth overall in the tournament. He made 218 runs in five matches at an average of 54.50, including a match-winning 100* against Pakistan while chasing 242 and a crucial 84 off 98 balls against Australia in the semi-final. Now gearing up for IPL 2025, Kohli will be a key figure for RCB, who begin their campaign against defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on March 22 at Eden Gardens. The legendary batter, IPL’s all-time leading run-scorer with 8,004 runs in 252 matches, will be eyeing his maiden IPL title alongside setting new records. In IPL 2024, Kohli dominated with the Orange Cap, scoring 741 runs at an average of 61.75 and a striking rate of 154.69. His stellar season included a century, five fifties, and 38 sixes, leading RCB to a remarkable turnaround from just one win in their first eight matches to securing a playoff spot with six consecutive victories. (With inputs from agencies)

'Don't want to sit alone and sulk': Disappointed Virat Kohli slams BCCI's 'family diktat'

<p data-start="94" data-end="410">Virat Kohli described his recent tour of Australia as one of the most intense disappointments he has ever faced&mdash;comparable only to the frustration he experienced during the summer of 2014 when he endured a disastrous tour of England, failing to score a single half-century in 10 innings, as per ESPNcricinfo.</p>
<p data-start="412" data-end="987">India were thrashed in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/border-gavaskar-trophy">Border-Gavaskar Trophy</a> by 3-1. Much like that challenging phase in England, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a> struggled with his vulnerability outside the off stump throughout the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Despite beginning the series on a strong note with an unbeaten century in India's victory at Perth, his form quickly dipped. In eight of his remaining innings, he was dismissed edging deliveries to the wicketkeeper or slip cordon, managing just 190 runs at an average of 23.75 across nine innings.</p>
<p data-start="989" data-end="1247">"If you ask me the intensity of how disappointed I've been, the most recent Australia tour would be the one that's most fresh. So it might feel the most intense to me," Kohli said at the RCB Innovation Lab Indian Sports Summit, as quoted from ESPNcricinfo.</p>
<p data-start="1249" data-end="1661">"For a long time, the tour of England in 2014 bothered me the most. But I can't look at it that way. I might not have an Australia tour again in four years. I don't know. You have to make peace with whatever's happened in your life. In 2014, I still had the chance to go in 2018 and do what I did. It might not have been the case. It might have been another blunder. But it didn't turn out that way," he added.</p>
<p data-start="1663" data-end="1913"><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-beyond-the-drag-flick-deepika-from-a-childhood-photograph-to-a-hockey-icon-8857490">Exclusive | Beyond the drag flick: Deepika, from a childhood photograph to a hockey icon</a></strong></p>
<p data-start="1663" data-end="1913">"So, there's no such guarantees in life. I think when you are at a stage for a long period of time, when you perform, people get used to your performances. They start feeling for you more than you feel sometimes. This has to be corrected," he said.</p>
<p data-start="1915" data-end="2206">Kohli admitted that the mounting failures in Australia led to a sense of urgency, making him desperate to rectify his mistakes with every passing innings. However, he eventually realised the importance of accepting disappointment rather than rushing into changes without proper reflection.</p>
<p data-start="2208" data-end="2373">"Once you start taking on the energy and the disappointment from the outside, then you start burdening yourself way more," Kohli said, as quoted from ESPNcricinfo.</p>
<p data-start="2375" data-end="2614">"And then you start thinking about things, like 'I've got two or three days left on this tour, I need to make an impact now.' And you start getting more desperate. That's something I've surely experienced in Australia as well," he added.</p>
<h2 data-start="2375" data-end="2614">'For me it is pure joy and love for the game'</h2>
<p data-start="2616" data-end="2951">He noted, "Because I got a good score in the first Test. I thought, right, 'let's go.' There's going to be another big series for me. It doesn't turn out that way. For me, it's just about the acceptance of, 'okay fine, this is what happened. I'm going to be honest with myself. Where do I want to go? What are my energy levels like?'</p>
<p data-start="2953" data-end="3288">"I'm not sitting here in 48 hours or 72 hours-time to make a decision like 'let me go.' Spend time with family. Just sit down. Let everything calm down. And see how I feel in a few days. And within five-six days I was excited to go to the gym. I was like, okay fine. It's all good. I don't need to tweet anything right now," he said.</p>
<p data-start="3290" data-end="3378">"Me playing the game is not for achievement," Kohli said.&nbsp;"It pretty much comes down to just the pure joy and enjoyment and love for the game. And as long as that love is intact, I will continue to play the game. I have to be honest about that with myself. Because the competitive streak doesn't allow you to find the answer," he said.</p>
<p data-start="3661" data-end="3999">"Recently, I had a very interesting conversation with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rahul-dravid">Rahul Dravid</a> when he was our coach. He said you always have to stay in touch with yourself. Figure out where you are placed in your life. And the answer is not that easy, because you might be going through a lean phase and you feel like 'this is it.' But it might not be," he added.</p>
<p data-start="4001" data-end="4420" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node="">"But then when it was time, he said my competitive streak would not allow me to accept it. Maybe one more. Maybe six more months, whatever. So, I think it's a fine balance. And you have to just pray and hope that you get clarity when it comes. At this point in my life, I feel pretty happy. I still love playing the game. Don't get nervous, I'm not making any announcements, as of now, everything is fine," Kohli concluded.</p>
<p data-start="4001" data-end="4420" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node=""><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Sports, Cricket: Much like that challenging phase in England, Virat Kohli struggled with his vulnerability outside the off stump throughout the Border-Gavaskar Trophy

Virat Kohli described his recent tour of Australia as one of the most intense disappointments he has ever faced—comparable only to the frustration he experienced during the summer of 2014 when he endured a disastrous tour of England, failing to score a single half-century in 10 innings, as per ESPNcricinfo. India were thrashed in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy by 3-1. Much like that challenging phase in England, Virat Kohli struggled with his vulnerability outside the off stump throughout the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Despite beginning the series on a strong note with an unbeaten century in India's victory at Perth, his form quickly dipped. In eight of his remaining innings, he was dismissed edging deliveries to the wicketkeeper or slip cordon, managing just 190 runs at an average of 23.75 across nine innings. "If you ask me the intensity of how disappointed I've been, the most recent Australia tour would be the one that's most fresh. So it might feel the most intense to me," Kohli said at the RCB Innovation Lab Indian Sports Summit, as quoted from ESPNcricinfo. "For a long time, the tour of England in 2014 bothered me the most. But I can't look at it that way. I might not have an Australia tour again in four years. I don't know. You have to make peace with whatever's happened in your life. In 2014, I still had the chance to go in 2018 and do what I did. It might not have been the case. It might have been another blunder. But it didn't turn out that way," he added. Also Read: Exclusive | Beyond the drag flick: Deepika, from a childhood photograph to a hockey icon "So, there's no such guarantees in life. I think when you are at a stage for a long period of time, when you perform, people get used to your performances. They start feeling for you more than you feel sometimes. This has to be corrected," he said. Kohli admitted that the mounting failures in Australia led to a sense of urgency, making him desperate to rectify his mistakes with every passing innings. However, he eventually realised the importance of accepting disappointment rather than rushing into changes without proper reflection. "Once you start taking on the energy and the disappointment from the outside, then you start burdening yourself way more," Kohli said, as quoted from ESPNcricinfo. "And then you start thinking about things, like 'I've got two or three days left on this tour, I need to make an impact now.' And you start getting more desperate. That's something I've surely experienced in Australia as well," he added. 'For me it is pure joy and love for the game' He noted, "Because I got a good score in the first Test. I thought, right, 'let's go.' There's going to be another big series for me. It doesn't turn out that way. For me, it's just about the acceptance of, 'okay fine, this is what happened. I'm going to be honest with myself. Where do I want to go? What are my energy levels like?' "I'm not sitting here in 48 hours or 72 hours-time to make a decision like 'let me go.' Spend time with family. Just sit down. Let everything calm down. And see how I feel in a few days. And within five-six days I was excited to go to the gym. I was like, okay fine. It's all good. I don't need to tweet anything right now," he said. "Me playing the game is not for achievement," Kohli said. "It pretty much comes down to just the pure joy and enjoyment and love for the game. And as long as that love is intact, I will continue to play the game. I have to be honest about that with myself. Because the competitive streak doesn't allow you to find the answer," he said. "Recently, I had a very interesting conversation with Rahul Dravid when he was our coach. He said you always have to stay in touch with yourself. Figure out where you are placed in your life. And the answer is not that easy, because you might be going through a lean phase and you feel like 'this is it.' But it might not be," he added. "But then when it was time, he said my competitive streak would not allow me to accept it. Maybe one more. Maybe six more months, whatever. So, I think it's a fine balance. And you have to just pray and hope that you get clarity when it comes. At this point in my life, I feel pretty happy. I still love playing the game. Don't get nervous, I'm not making any announcements, as of now, everything is fine," Kohli concluded. (With inputs from agencies)

Virat Kohli opens up on Australia tour: 'Most intense disappointment of my career'

<p>Ace India batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli" rel="dofollow">Virat Kohli</a> announced his T20I retirement shortly after India lifted the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas. Joining him were two giants of Indian cricket, captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma" rel="dofollow">Rohit Sharma</a> and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. Although Rohit and Jadeja haven&rsquo;t looked back at this format, Kohli has hinted at making a shock comeback to playing T20Is on one condition.</p>
<p>Kohli is perhaps the biggest name in world cricket, and his records speak for him. Owing to his cricket greatness and popularity amongst countless cricketers worldwide, Kohli is the most-followed Indian on the social media app Instagram. His reach and cricket&rsquo;s dominance in the South Asian market forced the International Olympic Committee (IOA) to consider adding this sport to the Olympic Programme for LA28, for which they used his cover photo to popularise it among non-playing countries.</p>
<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/price-tag-pressure-exists-but-once-youre-kkrs-venkatesh-iyer-ahead-of-ipl-2025-8856015" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Price tag pressure exists but once you&rsquo;re&hellip;,&rsquo; KKR&rsquo;s Venkatesh Iyer ahead of IPL 2025</a></strong></p>
<p>Although Kohli has achieved everything that there is in cricket, one medal absent from his decorated cabinet is for which he can consider returning to playing T20Is.</p>
<p>'If India reaches the Olympics final in 2028, (I) might just think of coming out of retirement for that one match. Winning an Olympic medal would be magnificent,' Kohli said on the sidelines of Innovation Lab Indian Sports Summit, powered by Leaders.</p>
<p>Kohli, 36, is as fit as anyone in the game, but should he plan to stick around when the Olympics in 2028 comes across, he&rsquo;d be approaching 40. Given his fitness and hunger to do more for his country, Kohli can play for the next three years.&nbsp;</p>
<p>However, speaking on the same lines, Kohli revealed what inspired him to embark on his fitness journey.</p>
<p>"My transformations came after a few tough tours when I saw the guys lasting on the field longer than us. From the team's point of view, things were not tough, but convincing my mum was tough. She thought I was looking sick. I told her that the world is talking about my training methods and I am not sick. I felt that I was able to do things much better," he added.</p>
<h2>Ready for IPL</h2>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-virat-kohli-joins-royal-challengers-bengaluru-squad-ahead-of-season-opener-against-kkr-8855737" rel="dofollow">Virat Kohli has joined the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) camp</a> for IPL 2025 starting March 22. RCB will face the defending champions, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), in the curtain raiser at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata.&nbsp;</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8aatn6y-nbhzgo53-vtkjqg5w">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This Man and the Aura. 😮&zwj;💨🤌 <a href="https://t.co/TkBv879DQs">pic.twitter.com/TkBv879DQs</a></p>
&mdash; Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1900857559504031985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2025</a></blockquote>
<p>Besides, when Kohli takes the field against the KKR next Saturday, he will create history by becoming the first player ever to feature for the same franchise for 18 straight years.&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Sports, Cricket: Although Kohli has achieved everything in cricket, one medal absent from his decorated cabinet is for which he can consider returning to playing T20Is.

Ace India batter Virat Kohli announced his T20I retirement shortly after India lifted the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas. Joining him were two giants of Indian cricket, captain Rohit Sharma and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. Although Rohit and Jadeja haven’t looked back at this format, Kohli has hinted at making a shock comeback to playing T20Is on one condition. Kohli is perhaps the biggest name in world cricket, and his records speak for him. Owing to his cricket greatness and popularity amongst countless cricketers worldwide, Kohli is the most-followed Indian on the social media app Instagram. His reach and cricket’s dominance in the South Asian market forced the International Olympic Committee (IOA) to consider adding this sport to the Olympic Programme for LA28, for which they used his cover photo to popularise it among non-playing countries. Also read | ‘Price tag pressure exists but once you’re…,’ KKR’s Venkatesh Iyer ahead of IPL 2025 Although Kohli has achieved everything that there is in cricket, one medal absent from his decorated cabinet is for which he can consider returning to playing T20Is. 'If India reaches the Olympics final in 2028, (I) might just think of coming out of retirement for that one match. Winning an Olympic medal would be magnificent,' Kohli said on the sidelines of Innovation Lab Indian Sports Summit, powered by Leaders. Kohli, 36, is as fit as anyone in the game, but should he plan to stick around when the Olympics in 2028 comes across, he’d be approaching 40. Given his fitness and hunger to do more for his country, Kohli can play for the next three years. However, speaking on the same lines, Kohli revealed what inspired him to embark on his fitness journey. "My transformations came after a few tough tours when I saw the guys lasting on the field longer than us. From the team's point of view, things were not tough, but convincing my mum was tough. She thought I was looking sick. I told her that the world is talking about my training methods and I am not sick. I felt that I was able to do things much better," he added. Ready for IPL Virat Kohli has joined the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) camp for IPL 2025 starting March 22. RCB will face the defending champions, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), in the curtain raiser at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. This Man and the Aura. 😮‍💨🤌 pic.twitter.com/TkBv879DQs — Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) March 15, 2025 Besides, when Kohli takes the field against the KKR next Saturday, he will create history by becoming the first player ever to feature for the same franchise for 18 straight years. (With inputs from agencies)

Virat Kohli hints at coming out of T20I retirement but only on one condition

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) season is all set for a grand start as defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the Eden Gardens on Saturday (Mar 22). Ahead of the clash, star batter Virat Kohli joined the camp as he looks to win his maiden IPL title. Virat joins the RCB camp just a week after winning the Champions Trophy 2025 in Dubai against New Zealand.</p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Virat joins RCB squad</strong></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">One of the best players of his generation, the IPL title remains the only thing missing from Virat&rsquo;s trophy cabinet as he hunts for the coveted title. Virat&rsquo;s presence in the squad should lift the spirits as RCB get ready for the IPL 2025. During Virat&rsquo;s previous 17 seasons with RCB, they have finished runners-up on three occasions and were eliminated in the playoffs in 2024.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">However, the former RCB captain returns to the RCB camp with two ICC trophies under his belt having lifted the 2024 T20 World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy. Virat will be joined by a few new names in the squad after the overhaul in the mega auctions in November. Liam Livingstone, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Romario Shepherd and others are few names added to the roster of the RCB squad.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/all-50-pakistan-cricketers-overlooked-in-the-hundred-draft-heres-why-8854794" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">All 50 Pakistan cricketers overlooked in The Hundred Draft &ndash; Here's why</a></strong></p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><strong>RCB squad for IPL 2025</strong></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Yash Dayal, Liam Livingstone (Rs. 8.75 crore), Phil Salt (Rs. 11.50 crore), Jitesh Sharma (Rs. 11 crore), Josh Hazlewood (Rs. 12.50 crore), Rasikh Dar (Rs. 6 crore), Suyash Sharma (Rs. 2.60 crore), Krunal Pandya (Rs. 5.75 crore), Bhuvneshwar Kumar (Rs. 10.75 crore), Swapnil Singh (Rs. 50 lakh), Tim David (Rs. 3 crore), Romario Shepherd (Rs. 1.50 crore), Nuwan Thushara (Rs. 1.60 crore), Manoj Bhandage (Rs. 30 lakh), Jacob Bethell (Rs. 2.60 crore), Devdutt Padikkal (Rs. 2 crore), Swastik Chhikara (Rs. 30 lakh), Lungi Ngidi (Rs. 1 crore), Abhinandan Singh (Rs. 30 lakh), Mohit Rathee (Rs. 30 lakh).</p>

Sports, Cricket, IPL: The Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) season is all set for a grand start as defending champions KKR take on RCB at the Eden Gardens on Saturday (Mar 22).

The Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) season is all set for a grand start as defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the Eden Gardens on Saturday (Mar 22). Ahead of the clash, star batter Virat Kohli joined the camp as he looks to win his maiden IPL title. Virat joins the RCB camp just a week after winning the Champions Trophy 2025 in Dubai against New Zealand. Virat joins RCB squad One of the best players of his generation, the IPL title remains the only thing missing from Virat’s trophy cabinet as he hunts for the coveted title. Virat’s presence in the squad should lift the spirits as RCB get ready for the IPL 2025. During Virat’s previous 17 seasons with RCB, they have finished runners-up on three occasions and were eliminated in the playoffs in 2024. However, the former RCB captain returns to the RCB camp with two ICC trophies under his belt having lifted the 2024 T20 World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy. Virat will be joined by a few new names in the squad after the overhaul in the mega auctions in November. Liam Livingstone, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Romario Shepherd and others are few names added to the roster of the RCB squad. ALSO READ | All 50 Pakistan cricketers overlooked in The Hundred Draft – Here's why RCB squad for IPL 2025 Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Yash Dayal, Liam Livingstone (Rs. 8.75 crore), Phil Salt (Rs. 11.50 crore), Jitesh Sharma (Rs. 11 crore), Josh Hazlewood (Rs. 12.50 crore), Rasikh Dar (Rs. 6 crore), Suyash Sharma (Rs. 2.60 crore), Krunal Pandya (Rs. 5.75 crore), Bhuvneshwar Kumar (Rs. 10.75 crore), Swapnil Singh (Rs. 50 lakh), Tim David (Rs. 3 crore), Romario Shepherd (Rs. 1.50 crore), Nuwan Thushara (Rs. 1.60 crore), Manoj Bhandage (Rs. 30 lakh), Jacob Bethell (Rs. 2.60 crore), Devdutt Padikkal (Rs. 2 crore), Swastik Chhikara (Rs. 30 lakh), Lungi Ngidi (Rs. 1 crore), Abhinandan Singh (Rs. 30 lakh), Mohit Rathee (Rs. 30 lakh).

IPL 2025: Virat Kohli joins Royal Challengers Bengaluru squad ahead of season opener against KKR

<p>Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma won their fourth ICC silverware each as India beat New Zealand for its third Champions Trophy title on Sunday (Mar 9) in Dubai, UAE. Virat and Rohit now have the most ICC titles for India, going past MS Dhoni who had three titles to his name.</p>
<p>Virat, before the Champions Trophy 2025, had won 2011 ODI World Cup, 2013 Champions Trophy and T20 World Cup 2024. Rohit, on the other hand, had won 2007 T20 World Cup, 2013 Champions Trophy and T20 World Cup 2024 before winning the Champions Trophy 2025.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-win-champions-trophy-76-and-potm-rohit-kohli-step-up-in-final-as-india-win-consecutive-icc-titles-after-2023-odi-wc-heartbreak-8838021">'76 and POTM': Rohit-Kohli step up in final as India win consecutive ICC titles after 2023 ODI WC heartbreak</a></p>
<p>MS Dhoni, the most successful India skipper, had won 2007 T20 World Cup, 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy. He's still the only skipper to win all three ICC title in white-ball format.</p>
<p>After the heartbreak of 2023 ODI World Cup Final loss against Australia at home - India have now won two back-to-back ICC titles with their most senior players stepping up in the crunch final game.</p>
<p>With the win, India now are the only team in the world cricket history to have won at least two titles in each of the white-ball tournaments - T20 World Cup, ODI World Cup and Champions Trophy.</p>
<p>They won the ODI World Cups in 1983 (Kapil Dev) and 2011 (MS Dhoni), T20 World Cup in 2007 (MS Dhoni) and 2024 (Rohit Sharma) and Champions Trophy in 2002 (Shared under Sourav Ganguly), 2013 (MS Dhoni) and 2025 (Rohit Sharma).</p>
<p>No other team except Australia has more than three ICC titles. The Kangaroos have won the ODI World Cup in 1987, 1999, 2003, 2007, 2015 and 2023 plus T20 World Cup in 2021 and Champions Trophy in 2006 &amp; 2009.</p>
<p>As for the Champions Trophy, this is the third time India have won this ICC title. They had previously shared it with Sri Lanka in 2002 under Sourav Ganguly and won it in 2013 under Dhoni.</p>

MS Dhoni, the most successful India skipper, had won 2007 T20 WC, 2011 ODI WC and 2013 Champions Trophy. He's still the only skipper to win all three ICC title in white-ball format. Cricket Sports

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma won their fourth ICC silverware each as India beat New Zealand for its third Champions Trophy title on Sunday (Mar 9) in Dubai, UAE. Virat and Rohit now have the most ICC titles for India, going past MS Dhoni who had three titles to his name. Virat, before the Champions Trophy 2025, had won 2011 ODI World Cup, 2013 Champions Trophy and T20 World Cup 2024. Rohit, on the other hand, had won 2007 T20 World Cup, 2013 Champions Trophy and T20 World Cup 2024 before winning the Champions Trophy 2025. Also Read: '76 and POTM': Rohit-Kohli step up in final as India win consecutive ICC titles after 2023 ODI WC heartbreak MS Dhoni, the most successful India skipper, had won 2007 T20 World Cup, 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy. He's still the only skipper to win all three ICC title in white-ball format. After the heartbreak of 2023 ODI World Cup Final loss against Australia at home - India have now won two back-to-back ICC titles with their most senior players stepping up in the crunch final game. With the win, India now are the only team in the world cricket history to have won at least two titles in each of the white-ball tournaments - T20 World Cup, ODI World Cup and Champions Trophy. They won the ODI World Cups in 1983 (Kapil Dev) and 2011 (MS Dhoni), T20 World Cup in 2007 (MS Dhoni) and 2024 (Rohit Sharma) and Champions Trophy in 2002 (Shared under Sourav Ganguly), 2013 (MS Dhoni) and 2025 (Rohit Sharma). No other team except Australia has more than three ICC titles. The Kangaroos have won the ODI World Cup in 1987, 1999, 2003, 2007, 2015 and 2023 plus T20 World Cup in 2021 and Champions Trophy in 2006 & 2009. As for the Champions Trophy, this is the third time India have won this ICC title. They had previously shared it with Sri Lanka in 2002 under Sourav Ganguly and won it in 2013 under Dhoni.

Rohit, Kohli surpass MS Dhoni for most ICC titles by an Indian with Champions Trophy 2025 win

<p>India's senior duo of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli were seen celebrating the Champions Trophy 2025 title win with a hug and 'dandiya' moves on Sunday (Mar 9) in Dubai. This was India's second consecutive ICC title, having won T20 World Cup 2024 in the West Indies.</p>
<p>As soon as Ravindra Jadeja hit the winning four on the last ball of the penultimate over, the celebrations broke in the dressing room with Rohit and Kohli sharing a big hug. Have a look at the video below:</p>
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<p>Rohit hit a 'leading from front' 76 in Dubai on Sunday (Mar 9) against New Zealand and gave India a platform to chase down 252 with one over to spare.</p>
<p>He was chosen the player of the match for his performance.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read</strong>: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/from-missing-out-in-2017-to-2023-heartbreak-indian-players-reflect-on-champions-trophy-2025-win-8838563">From missing out in CT 2017 to 2023 ODI WC heartbreak: Indian players reflect on Champions Trophy 2025 win</a></p>
<p>In T20 WC Final on June 29, 2024, it was Kohli who scored 76 against South Africa and gave India a total of 176, which proved enough in the end. Kohli was also adjudged POTM for his performance.&nbsp;</p>
<p>While the 'Ro-Ko', as the duo is called, announced their retirement from the T20Is after last year's World Cup win, Rohit announced on Sunday that 'nobody is retiring' from the ODI format.</p>
<p>With the win, India now are the only team in world cricket history to have won at least two titles in each of the white-ball tournaments - T20 World Cup, ODI World Cup and Champions Trophy.</p>
<p>They won the ODI World Cups in 1983 (Kapil Dev) and 2011 (MS Dhoni), T20 World Cup in 2007 (MS Dhoni) and 2024 (Rohit Sharma) and Champions Trophy in 2002 (Shared under Sourav Ganguly), 2013 (MS Dhoni) and 2025 (Rohit Sharma).</p>
<p>No other team except Australia has more than three ICC titles. The Kangaroos have won the ODI World Cup in 1987, 1999, 2003, 2007, 2015 and 2023 plus T20 World Cup in 2021 and Champions Trophy in 2006 and 2009.</p>

As soon as Ravindra Jadeja hit the winning four on the last ball of the penultimate over, the celebrations broke in the dressing room with Rohit and Kohli sharing a big hug. Cricket Sports

India's senior duo of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli were seen celebrating the Champions Trophy 2025 title win with a hug and 'dandiya' moves on Sunday (Mar 9) in Dubai. This was India's second consecutive ICC title, having won T20 World Cup 2024 in the West Indies. As soon as Ravindra Jadeja hit the winning four on the last ball of the penultimate over, the celebrations broke in the dressing room with Rohit and Kohli sharing a big hug. Have a look at the video below: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Team India (@indiancricketteam) Rohit hit a 'leading from front' 76 in Dubai on Sunday (Mar 9) against New Zealand and gave India a platform to chase down 252 with one over to spare. He was chosen the player of the match for his performance. Also Read: From missing out in CT 2017 to 2023 ODI WC heartbreak: Indian players reflect on Champions Trophy 2025 win In T20 WC Final on June 29, 2024, it was Kohli who scored 76 against South Africa and gave India a total of 176, which proved enough in the end. Kohli was also adjudged POTM for his performance. While the 'Ro-Ko', as the duo is called, announced their retirement from the T20Is after last year's World Cup win, Rohit announced on Sunday that 'nobody is retiring' from the ODI format. With the win, India now are the only team in world cricket history to have won at least two titles in each of the white-ball tournaments - T20 World Cup, ODI World Cup and Champions Trophy. They won the ODI World Cups in 1983 (Kapil Dev) and 2011 (MS Dhoni), T20 World Cup in 2007 (MS Dhoni) and 2024 (Rohit Sharma) and Champions Trophy in 2002 (Shared under Sourav Ganguly), 2013 (MS Dhoni) and 2025 (Rohit Sharma). No other team except Australia has more than three ICC titles. The Kangaroos have won the ODI World Cup in 1987, 1999, 2003, 2007, 2015 and 2023 plus T20 World Cup in 2021 and Champions Trophy in 2006 and 2009.

'A hug and stump-dandiya': WATCH | How Rohit and Virat celebrated India's Champions Trophy win

<p>India won the Champions Trophy 2025 on Sunday (Mar 9) in Dubai after beating New Zealand by four wickets with one over to spare. Chasing 252, skipper Rohit Sharma led the charge with 76 after spinners entrapped the Kiwis on a dry sub-continent pitch.</p>
<p>This is the third time India have won the Champions Trophy title. They had previously shared it with Sri Lanka in 2002 under Sourav Ganguly and won it in 2013 under MS Dhoni.</p>
<p>With the win, India now are the only team in world cricket history to have won at least two titles in each of the white-ball tournaments - T20 World Cup, ODI World Cup and Champions Trophy. Here's how the players reacted after the win:</p>
<p><strong>Hardik Pandya:</strong> Always amazing to win an ICC event. I remember 2017 very closely, couldn't finish that time. Very pleased to have done it here. KL was calm, he took his chances at the right time. He has immense talent, no one can time it as well as him.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/it-is-hosted-by-us-shoaib-akhtar-hits-out-pcb-for-missing-out-presentation-ceremony-after-champions-trophy-final-8838283">'It is hosted by us': Shoaib Akhtar hits out PCB for missing out presentation ceremony after Champions Trophy final</a></p>
<p><strong>Varun Chakaravarthy:</strong> It was a sudden inclusion and I didn't expect it to turn out like this. It's a dream come true. We had to stick to our lengths.</p>
<p><strong>Shreyas Iyer:</strong> Feeling ecstatic. This is my first ICC trophy, kinda overwhelmed looking at each and everyone in the dressing room. I love to go under pressure, I thrive. Not able to get a big one but immensely satisfying to contribute to win. These are the lucky earrings, they'll stay on.</p>
<p><strong>Shubman Gill: </strong>Felt amazing. For the most time, I sat back and enjoyed Rohit's batting. He told me doesn't matter how the scoreboard gap is, the aim was to bat till the end. We missed out in 2023, happy to win eight ODIs back to back. Seeing the intensity with which he plays with is amazing. He keeps telling us to give it everything and backs it up. NZ are very consistent and execute plans accurately. We know they give it their all. They showed it tonight with the consistency.</p>
<p><strong>Ravindra Jadeja:</strong> That is how it is with me; sometimes a hero, sometimes a zero. The wicket was not easy for a new batter. Hardik and KL were great. Winning the CT is a huge thing. If you don't win a big tournament after playing so long, it hurts.</p>
<p><strong>Kuldeep Yadav:</strong> Luckily my batting wasn't needed. KL and Hardik did brilliantly. I don't believe in favorites tags but we have been doing brilliantly. This win is dedicated to our fans. It is easy to say that four spinners in the team, but it is very tough to manage four spinners. There was a lot of planning and all credit to Rohit bhai. Big party tonight.</p>
<p><strong>KL Rahul:</strong> Not sure I can say this on air but I was s****** myself. As confident as I could be that I could get over the line. Keeping composure is all that matters, happy to have done it this time. I've batted in times like this in three out of the five games. Hard to put in words, but the team has pure skill. The way we've all had to play cricket growing up, we faced pressure from the time we became professional cricketers. The BCCI have groomed all of them and we've challenging ourselves to get better.</p>

This is the third time India have won the Champions Trophy title. They had previously shared it with Sri Lanka in 2002 under Sourav Ganguly and won it in 2013 under MS Dhoni.

India won the Champions Trophy 2025 on Sunday (Mar 9) in Dubai after beating New Zealand by four wickets with one over to spare. Chasing 252, skipper Rohit Sharma led the charge with 76 after spinners entrapped the Kiwis on a dry sub-continent pitch. This is the third time India have won the Champions Trophy title. They had previously shared it with Sri Lanka in 2002 under Sourav Ganguly and won it in 2013 under MS Dhoni. With the win, India now are the only team in world cricket history to have won at least two titles in each of the white-ball tournaments - T20 World Cup, ODI World Cup and Champions Trophy. Here's how the players reacted after the win: Hardik Pandya: Always amazing to win an ICC event. I remember 2017 very closely, couldn't finish that time. Very pleased to have done it here. KL was calm, he took his chances at the right time. He has immense talent, no one can time it as well as him. Also Read: 'It is hosted by us': Shoaib Akhtar hits out PCB for missing out presentation ceremony after Champions Trophy final Varun Chakaravarthy: It was a sudden inclusion and I didn't expect it to turn out like this. It's a dream come true. We had to stick to our lengths. Shreyas Iyer: Feeling ecstatic. This is my first ICC trophy, kinda overwhelmed looking at each and everyone in the dressing room. I love to go under pressure, I thrive. Not able to get a big one but immensely satisfying to contribute to win. These are the lucky earrings, they'll stay on. Shubman Gill: Felt amazing. For the most time, I sat back and enjoyed Rohit's batting. He told me doesn't matter how the scoreboard gap is, the aim was to bat till the end. We missed out in 2023, happy to win eight ODIs back to back. Seeing the intensity with which he plays with is amazing. He keeps telling us to give it everything and backs it up. NZ are very consistent and execute plans accurately. We know they give it their all. They showed it tonight with the consistency. Ravindra Jadeja: That is how it is with me; sometimes a hero, sometimes a zero. The wicket was not easy for a new batter. Hardik and KL were great. Winning the CT is a huge thing. If you don't win a big tournament after playing so long, it hurts. Kuldeep Yadav: Luckily my batting wasn't needed. KL and Hardik did brilliantly. I don't believe in favorites tags but we have been doing brilliantly. This win is dedicated to our fans. It is easy to say that four spinners in the team, but it is very tough to manage four spinners. There was a lot of planning and all credit to Rohit bhai. Big party tonight. KL Rahul: Not sure I can say this on air but I was s****** myself. As confident as I could be that I could get over the line. Keeping composure is all that matters, happy to have done it this time. I've batted in times like this in three out of the five games. Hard to put in words, but the team has pure skill. The way we've all had to play cricket growing up, we faced pressure from the time we became professional cricketers. The BCCI have groomed all of them and we've challenging ourselves to get better.

From missing out in CT 2017 to 2023 ODI WC heartbreak: Indian players reflect on Champions Trophy 2025 win

<p>It was Virat Kohli in T20 World Cup 2024 Final against South Africa and Rohit Sharma in Champions Trophy 2025 who stepped up with a Player of the Match performance to help India win. The senior duo of Indian cricket, fondly called Ro(hit)-Ko(hli), scored exactly the same number of runs as well.</p>
<p>Rohit hit a 'leading from front' 76 in Dubai on Sunday (Mar 9) against New Zealand and gave India a platform to chase down 252 with one over to spare. He was adjudged POTM for his performance eventually.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/a-first-in-14-years-rohit-does-a-dhoni-and-joins-clive-lloyd-ricky-ponting-in-elite-list-after-india-win-champions-trophy-8837965">'A first in 14 years': Rohit does a Dhoni and joins Clive Lloyd, Ricky Ponting in elite list after India win Champions Trophy</a></p>
<p>In T20 WC Final on June 29, 2024 - it was Kohli who scored 76 against South Africa and gave India a total of 176, which proved enough in the end. Kohli was also adjudged POTM for his performance.&nbsp;</p>
<p>After the heartbreak of 2023 ODI World Cup Final loss against Australia at home - India have now won two back-to-back ICC titles with their most senior players stepping up in the crunch final game.</p>
<p>The T20 WC 2024 was the second time India were crowned the world champions in the shortest format with the first one being in inaugural 2007 edition under MS Dhoni.</p>
<p>As for the Champions Trophy, this is the third time India have won this ICC title. They had previously shared it with Sri Lanka in 2002 under Sourav Ganguly and won it in 2013 under Dhoni.</p>
<p>With the win, India now are the only team in the world cricket history to have won at least two titles in each of the white-ball tournaments - T20 World Cup, ODI World Cup and Champions Trophy.</p>
<p>They won the ODI World Cups in 1983 (Kapil Dev) and 2011 (MS Dhoni), T20 World Cup in 2007 (MS Dhoni) and 2024 (Rohit Sharma) and Champions Trophy in 2002 (Shared under Sourav Ganguly), 2013 (MS Dhoni) and 2025 (Rohit Sharma).</p>
<p>No other team except Australia has more than three ICC titles. The Kangaroos have won the ODI World Cup in 1987, 1999, 2003, 2007, 2015 and 2023 plus T20 World Cup in 2021 and Champions Trophy in 2006 &amp; 2009.</p>

With the win, India now are the only team in the world cricket history to have won at least two titles in each of the white-ball tournaments - T20 World Cup, ODI World Cup and Champions Trophy. Cricket Sports

It was Virat Kohli in T20 World Cup 2024 Final against South Africa and Rohit Sharma in Champions Trophy 2025 who stepped up with a Player of the Match performance to help India win. The senior duo of Indian cricket, fondly called Ro(hit)-Ko(hli), scored exactly the same number of runs as well. Rohit hit a 'leading from front' 76 in Dubai on Sunday (Mar 9) against New Zealand and gave India a platform to chase down 252 with one over to spare. He was adjudged POTM for his performance eventually. Also Read: 'A first in 14 years': Rohit does a Dhoni and joins Clive Lloyd, Ricky Ponting in elite list after India win Champions Trophy In T20 WC Final on June 29, 2024 - it was Kohli who scored 76 against South Africa and gave India a total of 176, which proved enough in the end. Kohli was also adjudged POTM for his performance. After the heartbreak of 2023 ODI World Cup Final loss against Australia at home - India have now won two back-to-back ICC titles with their most senior players stepping up in the crunch final game. The T20 WC 2024 was the second time India were crowned the world champions in the shortest format with the first one being in inaugural 2007 edition under MS Dhoni. As for the Champions Trophy, this is the third time India have won this ICC title. They had previously shared it with Sri Lanka in 2002 under Sourav Ganguly and won it in 2013 under Dhoni. With the win, India now are the only team in the world cricket history to have won at least two titles in each of the white-ball tournaments - T20 World Cup, ODI World Cup and Champions Trophy. They won the ODI World Cups in 1983 (Kapil Dev) and 2011 (MS Dhoni), T20 World Cup in 2007 (MS Dhoni) and 2024 (Rohit Sharma) and Champions Trophy in 2002 (Shared under Sourav Ganguly), 2013 (MS Dhoni) and 2025 (Rohit Sharma). No other team except Australia has more than three ICC titles. The Kangaroos have won the ODI World Cup in 1987, 1999, 2003, 2007, 2015 and 2023 plus T20 World Cup in 2021 and Champions Trophy in 2006 & 2009.

'76 and POTM': Rohit-Kohli step up in final as India win consecutive ICC titles after 2023 ODI WC heartbreak

<p>Ace India batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli" rel="dofollow">Virat Kohli</a> is proud of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025</a> winning unit. Acknowledging Team India&rsquo;s depth that saw them <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-live-score-today-final-match-updates-live-streaming-champions-trophy-2025-ball-by-ball-commentary-full-scorecard-india-vs-new-zealand-dubai-stadium-9-march-8835543" rel="dofollow">clinch their third CT title</a> and become the most successful team in this competition, Kohli said India has a squad that can conquer the world across formats for the next eight years, leaving behind a lasting legacy. On Sunday in Dubai, India beat New Zealand to win the first showpiece event of the year by four wickets, their second in two consecutive years.</p>
<p>Despite not having their premier seamer Jasprit Bumrah due to a back injury and also not having a few emerging names in the final 15, India won the eight-team tournament, remaining unbeaten throughout.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/fans-made-dubai-a-home-ground-for-us-rohit-sharma-on-indias-champions-trophy-win-8837639" rel="dofollow">Fans made Dubai a home ground for us: Rohit Sharma on India&rsquo;s Champions Trophy win</a></strong></p>
<p>"When you leave, you want to leave the team in a better place, I feel we have a squad that's ready to take on the world for the next eight years," Kohli said of India&rsquo;s bench strength.&nbsp;</p>
<p>"There's so much talent in the dressing room. They're trying to take their game further, and we're [seniors] just happy to be of help, sharing our experience, and that's what makes this Indian team so strong,&rdquo; he added.</p>
<p>Kohli also lauded vice-captain Gill and the middle order batters Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul for applying themselves better and helping India win crucial matches in this tournament.</p>
<p>"Shubman [Gill] has been outstanding, Shreyas [Iyer] beautiful, KL [Rahul] has finished games, and Hardik [Pandya] has been superb with the bat,&rdquo; Kohli added.</p>
<p>Besides, he appreciated the whole team for streamlining their performances, acclimatising to the playing conditions, and absorbing pressure like none other. Regarding the motivation behind chasing ICC titles, Kohli said, "These are the things you want to play (for titles), playing under pressure and putting your hand up. The whole team, everyone has put their hands up sometimes or other during the course of the tournament."&nbsp;</p>
<p>"Everyone has put up impactful performances, we've been part of an amazing team, and the amount of work we've done in the practice sessions, it feels great,&rdquo; he continued.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Kohli lauds Kiwis</h2>
<p>India and New Zealand are not bitter rivals but have faced off quite a bit in ICC knockouts lately, with both teams winning almost equally. Having last beaten them in the CWC 2023 semis in Mumbai, Kohli showered only praises for India&rsquo;s opponents, saying they always come up with a plan and are a tough team to go past.</p>
<p>"Amazing, we've always been in awe with what they can do with the limited number of players they've had over the years, and just maximise their talent. Every time we played against them in big games, we knew they were going to come with a set plan. No team in world cricket executes plans as well as they do,&rdquo; Kohli said of New Zealand.&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Cricket, Sports: Despite missing Bumrah due to a back injury and also not having a few emerging names in the final 15, India won the eight-team tournament.

Ace India batter Virat Kohli is proud of the Champions Trophy 2025 winning unit. Acknowledging Team India’s depth that saw them clinch their third CT title and become the most successful team in this competition, Kohli said India has a squad that can conquer the world across formats for the next eight years, leaving behind a lasting legacy. On Sunday in Dubai, India beat New Zealand to win the first showpiece event of the year by four wickets, their second in two consecutive years. Despite not having their premier seamer Jasprit Bumrah due to a back injury and also not having a few emerging names in the final 15, India won the eight-team tournament, remaining unbeaten throughout. Also read | Fans made Dubai a home ground for us: Rohit Sharma on India’s Champions Trophy win "When you leave, you want to leave the team in a better place, I feel we have a squad that's ready to take on the world for the next eight years," Kohli said of India’s bench strength. "There's so much talent in the dressing room. They're trying to take their game further, and we're [seniors] just happy to be of help, sharing our experience, and that's what makes this Indian team so strong,” he added. Kohli also lauded vice-captain Gill and the middle order batters Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul for applying themselves better and helping India win crucial matches in this tournament. "Shubman [Gill] has been outstanding, Shreyas [Iyer] beautiful, KL [Rahul] has finished games, and Hardik [Pandya] has been superb with the bat,” Kohli added. Besides, he appreciated the whole team for streamlining their performances, acclimatising to the playing conditions, and absorbing pressure like none other. Regarding the motivation behind chasing ICC titles, Kohli said, "These are the things you want to play (for titles), playing under pressure and putting your hand up. The whole team, everyone has put their hands up sometimes or other during the course of the tournament." "Everyone has put up impactful performances, we've been part of an amazing team, and the amount of work we've done in the practice sessions, it feels great,” he continued. Kohli lauds Kiwis India and New Zealand are not bitter rivals but have faced off quite a bit in ICC knockouts lately, with both teams winning almost equally. Having last beaten them in the CWC 2023 semis in Mumbai, Kohli showered only praises for India’s opponents, saying they always come up with a plan and are a tough team to go past. "Amazing, we've always been in awe with what they can do with the limited number of players they've had over the years, and just maximise their talent. Every time we played against them in big games, we knew they were going to come with a set plan. No team in world cricket executes plans as well as they do,” Kohli said of New Zealand. (With inputs from agencies)

Kohli on India’s depth after Champions Trophy hurray: ‘They are ready to conquer world for next eight years’

<p>The entire country is currently glued to their screens, watching the India vs New Zealand Champions Trophy final. Apart from the match, if there's anything that has caught netizens' attention, it's Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma, who is also the wife of cricketer Virat Kohli.</p>
<p>Right from the start of the match, several moments featuring Anushka and Virat have gone viral, with netizens going gaga over them.</p>
<p>Among the many clips, one video that has sparked the most discussion is Sharma's reaction when Kohli got out after scoring just a single run in the final match.</p>
<p>The actress, who was present in the stands and continuously cheering, was left in shock. In the viral picture, the PK actress looked visibly disappointed after Kohli got out.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Sharing a picture of the actress, an X user wrote, "<span>Anushka Sharma went down in disappointment too.''</span></p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The reaction of New Zealand players and Indian fans after Virat Kohli wicket. <br><br>- Anushka Sharma went down in disappointment too. <br><br><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsNZ</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli%F0%93%83%B5?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli𓃵</a> <a href="https://t.co/IFZAcyE3mN">pic.twitter.com/IFZAcyE3mN</a></p>
&mdash; Ahmad Haseeb (@iamAhmadhaseeb) <a href="https://twitter.com/iamAhmadhaseeb/status/1898742559171661847?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2025</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier in the day, Sharma was seen in the stands, cheering for her husband. In another viral clip, she was spotted waving at Kohli, who waved back in response.</p>
<p>For the final match, Anushka opted for a smart denim look, wearing an oversized denim shirt paired with pearl-embellished denim pants.</p>
<p>Througout the champions trophy, Anushka was their in the stands to support her husband. Several adorable moments of the couple have gone viral across the internet.&nbsp;</p>
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Entertainment | Bollywood | Sports: Right from the start of the match, several moments featuring Anushka and Virat have gone viral, with netizens going gaga over them.

The entire country is currently glued to their screens, watching the India vs New Zealand Champions Trophy final. Apart from the match, if there's anything that has caught netizens' attention, it's Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma, who is also the wife of cricketer Virat Kohli. Right from the start of the match, several moments featuring Anushka and Virat have gone viral, with netizens going gaga over them. Among the many clips, one video that has sparked the most discussion is Sharma's reaction when Kohli got out after scoring just a single run in the final match. The actress, who was present in the stands and continuously cheering, was left in shock. In the viral picture, the PK actress looked visibly disappointed after Kohli got out. Sharing a picture of the actress, an X user wrote, "Anushka Sharma went down in disappointment too.'' The reaction of New Zealand players and Indian fans after Virat Kohli wicket. - Anushka Sharma went down in disappointment too. #INDvsNZ #ViratKohli𓃵 pic.twitter.com/IFZAcyE3mN — Ahmad Haseeb (@iamAhmadhaseeb) March 9, 2025 Earlier in the day, Sharma was seen in the stands, cheering for her husband. In another viral clip, she was spotted waving at Kohli, who waved back in response. For the final match, Anushka opted for a smart denim look, wearing an oversized denim shirt paired with pearl-embellished denim pants. Througout the champions trophy, Anushka was their in the stands to support her husband. Several adorable moments of the couple have gone viral across the internet.

Anushka Sharma’s ‘shocking’ reaction after Virat Kohli gets out in Champions Trophy final

<p>The ICC Champions Trophy final between India and New Zealand in Dubai is set to be a thrilling sequel to their iconic clash in the same tournament 25 years ago. With the title on the line, this match could shape the legacies of several players on both sides.</p>
<p>Over the years, India-New Zealand encounters have been defined by key battles&mdash;whether it's Virat Kohli's masterclass in a chase, crucial supporting knocks from KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer, or Kiwi pacers like Matt Henry and Trent Boult ripping through India's top order. More recently, both teams have relied on their spinners to dictate terms. The final promises to follow a similar script, with multiple subplots shaping its outcome.</p>
<p>WION takes a look at the key battles and factors to watch out for:</p>
<h2>Matt Henry's fitness: A decisive factor</h2>
<p>The leading wicket-taker of the tournament, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/matt-henry">Matt Henry</a> has been lethal, taking 10 wickets at an average of 16.70, including a five-wicket haul. His ability to trouble India is well documented&mdash;most notably in the 2019 World Cup semi-final, where his early strikes derailed India's chase of 239.</p>
<p>Henry has dismissed Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill twice each in ODIs, with the duo averaging just 29 and 31.50 against him. He has also gotten the better of Kohli and enjoys an upper hand against KL Rahul.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-trophy-betting-despite-ban-arrests-satta-market-thrives-with-57mn-in-play-reports-8835863">Champions Trophy betting: Despite ban, arrests, 'satta market' thrives with $57mn in play - Reports</a></strong></p>
<p>If Henry is ruled out due to his shoulder injury from the semifinal, New Zealand will turn to Kyle Jamieson and Will O&rsquo;Rourke. However, O&rsquo;Rourke is not a regular new-ball bowler, which could work in India's favour. Jacob Duffy and all-rounder Nathan Smith are backup options but lack Henry&rsquo;s experience and impact. If Henry plays, India&rsquo;s top order will have a big challenge ahead. If he doesn't, expect Rohit and Gill to go on the attack.</p>
<h2>India&rsquo;s middle order vs Santner &amp; Bracewell</h2>
<p>New Zealand&rsquo;s spin duo of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mitchell-santner">Mitchell Santner</a> (7 wickets at 27.71) and Michael Bracewell (6 wickets at 28.83) have been effective, despite playing most of their matches on batting-friendly tracks in Pakistan.</p>
<p>Santner, who has 16 ODI wickets this year at an economy of 4.48, has troubled India before. His 13-wicket haul in last year&rsquo;s Pune Test showcased his ability to exploit slow conditions. Since 2023, he has dismissed Kohli and Rahul twice each, conceding just 37 and 2 runs to them, respectively. While Rohit and Gill have dominated him with strike rates of 125 and 116.6, the slower Dubai surface could make scoring against him difficult.</p>
<p>Bracewell has also gone under the radar, picking up 12 wickets this year at an economy of 4.36. How Santner and Bracewell contain India&rsquo;s engine room of Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, and Rahul&mdash;masters of strike rotation and calculated aggression&mdash;could be a turning point.</p>
<h2>Rachin Ravindra: The X-factor</h2>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rachin-ravindra">Rachin Ravindra</a> has been in sublime form, scoring 226 runs, including two centuries, in the tournament. His only failure came against India in Dubai, where he fell for just six runs to Hardik Pandya.</p>
<p>India has largely kept him quiet, dismissing him for scores of 94, 75, and 6. However, his prowess against spin&mdash;489 runs at an average above 61 and a strike rate above 112&mdash;makes him a serious threat. The 2023 World Cup showed his ability to dominate spinners, and if he gets going, India&rsquo;s slow bowlers will have a tough challenge.</p>
<h2>Indian spinners vs New Zealand&rsquo;s middle order</h2>
<p>India&rsquo;s spin attack, led by mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy, could pose serious problems for New Zealand. The last time the Kiwis played in Dubai, Chakaravarthy dismantled their middle order with a stunning 5/42 while defending 250.</p>
<p>India also boasts an in-form spin trio&mdash;Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, and Kuldeep Yadav. In their last meeting, New Zealand struggled against spin, crawling from 44/1 to 93/2 between overs 11-25. Despite having elite spin players like Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell, New Zealand could once again find themselves in a stranglehold if India unleashes another spin choke.</p>
<h2>Fitness and fielding in Dubai heat</h2>
<p>With temperatures expected to touch 34&deg;C during the final, fitness and fielding will be crucial. Both teams have some of the fittest players in world cricket, but endurance in the sweltering heat&mdash;especially while fielding and running between the wickets&mdash;will be tested.</p>

Sports, Cricket: India-New Zealand encounters have been defined by key battles and with the title on the line, this match could shape the legacies of several players on both sides

The ICC Champions Trophy final between India and New Zealand in Dubai is set to be a thrilling sequel to their iconic clash in the same tournament 25 years ago. With the title on the line, this match could shape the legacies of several players on both sides. Over the years, India-New Zealand encounters have been defined by key battles—whether it's Virat Kohli's masterclass in a chase, crucial supporting knocks from KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer, or Kiwi pacers like Matt Henry and Trent Boult ripping through India's top order. More recently, both teams have relied on their spinners to dictate terms. The final promises to follow a similar script, with multiple subplots shaping its outcome. WION takes a look at the key battles and factors to watch out for: Matt Henry's fitness: A decisive factor The leading wicket-taker of the tournament, Matt Henry has been lethal, taking 10 wickets at an average of 16.70, including a five-wicket haul. His ability to trouble India is well documented—most notably in the 2019 World Cup semi-final, where his early strikes derailed India's chase of 239. Henry has dismissed Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill twice each in ODIs, with the duo averaging just 29 and 31.50 against him. He has also gotten the better of Kohli and enjoys an upper hand against KL Rahul. Also Read: Champions Trophy betting: Despite ban, arrests, 'satta market' thrives with $57mn in play - Reports If Henry is ruled out due to his shoulder injury from the semifinal, New Zealand will turn to Kyle Jamieson and Will O’Rourke. However, O’Rourke is not a regular new-ball bowler, which could work in India's favour. Jacob Duffy and all-rounder Nathan Smith are backup options but lack Henry’s experience and impact. If Henry plays, India’s top order will have a big challenge ahead. If he doesn't, expect Rohit and Gill to go on the attack. India’s middle order vs Santner & Bracewell New Zealand’s spin duo of Mitchell Santner (7 wickets at 27.71) and Michael Bracewell (6 wickets at 28.83) have been effective, despite playing most of their matches on batting-friendly tracks in Pakistan. Santner, who has 16 ODI wickets this year at an economy of 4.48, has troubled India before. His 13-wicket haul in last year’s Pune Test showcased his ability to exploit slow conditions. Since 2023, he has dismissed Kohli and Rahul twice each, conceding just 37 and 2 runs to them, respectively. While Rohit and Gill have dominated him with strike rates of 125 and 116.6, the slower Dubai surface could make scoring against him difficult. Bracewell has also gone under the radar, picking up 12 wickets this year at an economy of 4.36. How Santner and Bracewell contain India’s engine room of Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, and Rahul—masters of strike rotation and calculated aggression—could be a turning point. Rachin Ravindra: The X-factor Rachin Ravindra has been in sublime form, scoring 226 runs, including two centuries, in the tournament. His only failure came against India in Dubai, where he fell for just six runs to Hardik Pandya. India has largely kept him quiet, dismissing him for scores of 94, 75, and 6. However, his prowess against spin—489 runs at an average above 61 and a strike rate above 112—makes him a serious threat. The 2023 World Cup showed his ability to dominate spinners, and if he gets going, India’s slow bowlers will have a tough challenge. Indian spinners vs New Zealand’s middle order India’s spin attack, led by mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy, could pose serious problems for New Zealand. The last time the Kiwis played in Dubai, Chakaravarthy dismantled their middle order with a stunning 5/42 while defending 250. India also boasts an in-form spin trio—Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, and Kuldeep Yadav. In their last meeting, New Zealand struggled against spin, crawling from 44/1 to 93/2 between overs 11-25. Despite having elite spin players like Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell, New Zealand could once again find themselves in a stranglehold if India unleashes another spin choke. Fitness and fielding in Dubai heat With temperatures expected to touch 34°C during the final, fitness and fielding will be crucial. Both teams have some of the fittest players in world cricket, but endurance in the sweltering heat—especially while fielding and running between the wickets—will be tested.

Champions Trophy Final: Five key battles that could decide India-New Zealand final outcome

<p data-start="90" data-end="329">As India prepares to face New Zealand in the ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy</a> 2025 final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, vice-captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shubhman-gill">Shubman Gill</a> has hailed the current batting lineup as the best he has ever been part of in his career.</p>
<p data-start="331" data-end="548">Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Gill praised the presence of stalwarts like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, along with a deep and in-form middle order that allows the top-order batters to play more freely.</p>
<p data-start="550" data-end="782">"I think this is the best batting lineup that I have personally been a part of. Rohit and Virat are all-time one-day greats. Rohit is one of the best white-ball openers, and Virat is arguably the best ODI batsman ever," Gill said.</p>
<p data-start="1038" data-end="1223"><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-live-score-today-final-match-updates-live-streaming-champions-trophy-2025-ball-by-ball-commentary-full-scorecard-india-vs-new-zealand-dubai-stadium-9-march-8835543">IND vs NZ Final Live Score: India-New Zealand square off in summit clash</a></strong></p>
<p data-start="784" data-end="962">He further emphasised the depth in India's batting, crediting the presence of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shreyas-iyer">Shreyas Iyer</a>, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ravindra-jadeja">Ravindra Jadeja</a> for reducing pressure on the top order.</p>
<p data-start="964" data-end="1169">"In terms of batting, we have Shreyas in great form, KL, Hardik, and Jaddu, which gives us depth. This allows the top-order players to be more aggressive because we have strong backup options," he added.</p>
<p data-start="1171" data-end="1385">Reflecting on past challenges, Gill admitted that India's top order used to face additional pressure due to the lack of batting depth. However, he believes the current squad has successfully addressed this issue.</p>
<p data-start="1387" data-end="1602">"This was something we struggled with in the past. There wasn&rsquo;t enough batting depth, which meant added pressure on the top order to bat long. But now, we have more freedom to play our natural game," he explained.</p>
<p data-start="1604" data-end="1728">With India looking to secure another ICC title, all eyes will be on how they tackle New Zealand in this high-stakes final.</p>
<h2 data-start="1730" data-end="1763"><strong data-start="1734" data-end="1761">A chance for redemption</strong></h2>
<p data-start="1765" data-end="2064">India remains unbeaten in the tournament, while New Zealand has showcased solid performances under Mitchell Santner&rsquo;s leadership. The clash serves as an opportunity for India to avenge past losses to the Kiwis, including the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-final and the 2021 World Test Championship final.</p>
<p data-start="2066" data-end="2461">In their previous encounter last week, India secured a 44-run win over New Zealand, posting 249 runs before bowling the Black Caps out for 205 in 46 overs. Shreyas Iyer top-scored for India with 79 off 98 balls, while Matt Henry starred for New Zealand with 5/42. India&rsquo;s spin attack dominated, with Varun Chakravarthy delivering a match-winning performance of 5/42 in just his second ODI.</p>
<h2 data-start="2203" data-end="2234"><strong data-start="2207" data-end="2232">Squads:</strong></h2>
<p data-start="2236" data-end="2480"><strong data-start="2236" data-end="2246">India:</strong> Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Harshit Rana, Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Washington Sundar, Varun Chakravarthy, Arshdeep Singh.</p>
<p data-start="2482" data-end="2734" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node=""><strong data-start="2482" data-end="2498">New Zealand:</strong> Will Young, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Rachin Ravindra, Tom Latham (wk), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, William O&rsquo;Rourke, Daryl Mitchell, Nathan Smith, Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy.</p>
<p data-start="2482" data-end="2734" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node=""><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Sports, Cricket: Gill praised the presence of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, along with a deep and in-form middle order that allows the top-order batters to play more freely

As India prepares to face New Zealand in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, vice-captain Shubman Gill has hailed the current batting lineup as the best he has ever been part of in his career. Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Gill praised the presence of stalwarts like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, along with a deep and in-form middle order that allows the top-order batters to play more freely. "I think this is the best batting lineup that I have personally been a part of. Rohit and Virat are all-time one-day greats. Rohit is one of the best white-ball openers, and Virat is arguably the best ODI batsman ever," Gill said. Also Read: IND vs NZ Final Live Score: India-New Zealand square off in summit clash He further emphasised the depth in India's batting, crediting the presence of Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja for reducing pressure on the top order. "In terms of batting, we have Shreyas in great form, KL, Hardik, and Jaddu, which gives us depth. This allows the top-order players to be more aggressive because we have strong backup options," he added. Reflecting on past challenges, Gill admitted that India's top order used to face additional pressure due to the lack of batting depth. However, he believes the current squad has successfully addressed this issue. "This was something we struggled with in the past. There wasn’t enough batting depth, which meant added pressure on the top order to bat long. But now, we have more freedom to play our natural game," he explained. With India looking to secure another ICC title, all eyes will be on how they tackle New Zealand in this high-stakes final. A chance for redemption India remains unbeaten in the tournament, while New Zealand has showcased solid performances under Mitchell Santner’s leadership. The clash serves as an opportunity for India to avenge past losses to the Kiwis, including the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-final and the 2021 World Test Championship final. In their previous encounter last week, India secured a 44-run win over New Zealand, posting 249 runs before bowling the Black Caps out for 205 in 46 overs. Shreyas Iyer top-scored for India with 79 off 98 balls, while Matt Henry starred for New Zealand with 5/42. India’s spin attack dominated, with Varun Chakravarthy delivering a match-winning performance of 5/42 in just his second ODI. Squads: India: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Harshit Rana, Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Washington Sundar, Varun Chakravarthy, Arshdeep Singh. 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 O’Rourke, Daryl Mitchell, Nathan Smith, Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy: 'Best batting line-up that I have been part of', says Shubman Gill ahead of final

<p>Ace India batter Virat Kohli suffered a blow to his knee during training ahead of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-free-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-champions-trophy-2025-final-india-vs-new-zealand-live-online-8833382" rel="dofollow">India-New Zealand Champions Trophy final in Dubai</a> on Sunday (Mar 9). While facing a seamer in the nets at the ICC Academy, Kohli was hit on his knee, prompting him to drop guards and stop training, per reports. The Indian physio ran towards him and applied a spray, wrapping the injured area with a bandage.</p>
<p>Despite suffering pain, Kohli remained at the training ground, observing the team practice from a distance. The Indian staff later clarified that the injury wasn&rsquo;t serious and that Kohli would be fit to feature in the Sunday showdown in Dubai.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-indias-record-in-icc-finals-played-on-sundays-which-day-is-luckiest-for-men-in-blue-8834254" rel="dofollow">India&rsquo;s record in ICC finals played on &lsquo;Sundays&rsquo;; which day is luckiest for Men in Blue?</a></strong></p>
<h2>India&rsquo;s Dubai advantage</h2>
<p>Most Champions Trophy 2025 participating teams have shown resentment over India enjoying the much-talked-about &lsquo;venue advantage&rsquo; at the event. While every other team travelled across different cities in Pakistan and those in Group A to Dubai, taking flights, changing hotels, training and playing at separate venues, India was far from such logistical challenges.</p>
<p>After the PCB and the ICC picked Dubai as a neutral venue, accepting the hybrid model for the eight-team tournament, India stayed in the same hotel, practised at one training ground and played all their matches, including the knockouts in Dubai only.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-champions-trophy-final-ravi-ashwin-handpicks-indias-trump-card-for-dubai-showdown-8834047" rel="dofollow">IND vs NZ Champions Trophy final: Ashwin handpicks India&rsquo;s trump card for Dubai showdown</a></strong></p>
<p>The conversation began soon after the tournament commenced, with Pakistan, England, and later South African players criticising the schedule challenges faced by everyone barring India. While former England captains-turned-broadcasters Nasser Hussain and Michael Atherton admitted India has an advantage playing in Dubai, Proteas batter David Miller revealed he will support New Zealand in the grand finale&mdash;the team that knocked South Africa out of the tournament in the semis.</p>
<h2>India-New Zealand finale</h2>
<p>India and New Zealand will meet in the summit clash of the first showpiece event of the year, but not for the first time; going back 25 years ago, both the teams met in the final of this tournament, where <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-were-202-in-39-overs-but-managed-264-in-50-overs-how-new-zealand-won-2000-champions-trophy-final-vs-india-8831263" rel="dofollow">the Kiwis emerged victorious</a>.</p>
<p>A quarter of a century later, the unbeaten Indian Team in this tournament has a chance to avenge that loss and claim their third Champions Trophy title, and should that happen, India will become the most successful team in this competition, winning three CT titles (most by anyone).&nbsp;</p>
<p>Meanwhile, India and New Zealand faced off earlier in this edition in the group stage, where the Men in Blue won the contest by 44 runs.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Cricket, Sports: Virat Kohli has been in red-hot form for Team India in the Champions Trophy 2025, scoring 217 runs in four contested matches—fourth-most in this edition thus far.

Ace India batter Virat Kohli suffered a blow to his knee during training ahead of the India-New Zealand Champions Trophy final in Dubai on Sunday (Mar 9). While facing a seamer in the nets at the ICC Academy, Kohli was hit on his knee, prompting him to drop guards and stop training, per reports. The Indian physio ran towards him and applied a spray, wrapping the injured area with a bandage. Despite suffering pain, Kohli remained at the training ground, observing the team practice from a distance. The Indian staff later clarified that the injury wasn’t serious and that Kohli would be fit to feature in the Sunday showdown in Dubai. Also read | India’s record in ICC finals played on ‘Sundays’; which day is luckiest for Men in Blue? India’s Dubai advantage Most Champions Trophy 2025 participating teams have shown resentment over India enjoying the much-talked-about ‘venue advantage’ at the event. While every other team travelled across different cities in Pakistan and those in Group A to Dubai, taking flights, changing hotels, training and playing at separate venues, India was far from such logistical challenges. After the PCB and the ICC picked Dubai as a neutral venue, accepting the hybrid model for the eight-team tournament, India stayed in the same hotel, practised at one training ground and played all their matches, including the knockouts in Dubai only. Also read | IND vs NZ Champions Trophy final: Ashwin handpicks India’s trump card for Dubai showdown The conversation began soon after the tournament commenced, with Pakistan, England, and later South African players criticising the schedule challenges faced by everyone barring India. While former England captains-turned-broadcasters Nasser Hussain and Michael Atherton admitted India has an advantage playing in Dubai, Proteas batter David Miller revealed he will support New Zealand in the grand finale—the team that knocked South Africa out of the tournament in the semis. India-New Zealand finale India and New Zealand will meet in the summit clash of the first showpiece event of the year, but not for the first time; going back 25 years ago, both the teams met in the final of this tournament, where the Kiwis emerged victorious. A quarter of a century later, the unbeaten Indian Team in this tournament has a chance to avenge that loss and claim their third Champions Trophy title, and should that happen, India will become the most successful team in this competition, winning three CT titles (most by anyone). Meanwhile, India and New Zealand faced off earlier in this edition in the group stage, where the Men in Blue won the contest by 44 runs. (With inputs from agencies)

IND vs NZ: Injury scare for Virat Kohli ahead of Champions Trophy final – Report

<p>As the cricketing world eagerly anticipates the ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> final on Sunday (March 9) in Dubai, two titans of the modern game, Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson, are set to lead their nations&mdash;India and New Zealand&mdash;into a thrilling contest. Both players, integral members of the &lsquo;Fab Four&rsquo; alongside Joe Root and Steve Smith, have showcased exceptional form throughout the tournament, setting the stage for a thrilling showdown.</p>
<h2>Virat Kohli: The chase maestro</h2>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a>&rsquo;s journey in this Champions Trophy has been nothing short of spectacular. Making 217 runs in four innings at an impressive average of 72.33, he currently stands as the tournament&rsquo;s third-highest run-scorer. His campaign was highlighted by a brilliant century against Pakistan during the group stages, where he demonstrated his signature blend of aggression and finesse. In the semi-final against Australia, Kohli once again proved his mettle in high-pressure situations. Chasing a target of 265, he anchored the innings with a composed 84 off 98 balls, guiding India to a four-wicket win. His ability to rotate the strike and build partnerships was pivotal in this successful chase.</p>
<h2>Kane Williamson: The epitome of consistency</h2>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/kane-williamson">Kane Williamson</a> has been the cornerstone of New Zealand&rsquo;s batting lineup in this tournament. Despite a rare failure against Pakistan, where he was dismissed for just one run, Williamson showcased resilience and class in subsequent matches. In the semi-final against South Africa, he delivered a stellar performance, scoring 102 runs off 94 balls. This innings not only propelled New Zealand to a formidable total but also marked his 15th ODI century. His partnership of 164 runs with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rachin-ravindra">Rachin Ravindra</a> was instrumental in setting up the victory, underscoring his knack for rising to the occasion in crucial matches.</p>
<h2>The duel</h2>
<p>As India and New Zealand prepare to face off in the final, the spotlight inevitably falls on these two maestros. Kohli&rsquo;s prowess in chasing targets and Williamson&rsquo;s ability to anchor innings make them linchpins for their respective teams. Their performances have not only been pivotal in their teams&rsquo; journeys to the final but also exemplify their leadership qualities and cricketing understanding.</p>
<p>In a tournament where both India and New Zealand have displayed exceptional skill and tenacity, the final promises to be a fitting climax. The contributions of Kohli and Williamson will undoubtedly be central to the outcome, as both seek to etch their names in Champions Trophy history by leading their nations to glory.</p>

Cricket, Sports: Both players, integral members of the esteemed ‘Fab Four’, have showcased exceptional form throughout the tournament, setting the stage for a fascinating showdown

As the cricketing world eagerly anticipates the ICC Champions Trophy final on Sunday (March 9) in Dubai, two titans of the modern game, Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson, are set to lead their nations—India and New Zealand—into a thrilling contest. Both players, integral members of the ‘Fab Four’ alongside Joe Root and Steve Smith, have showcased exceptional form throughout the tournament, setting the stage for a thrilling showdown. Virat Kohli: The chase maestro Virat Kohli’s journey in this Champions Trophy has been nothing short of spectacular. Making 217 runs in four innings at an impressive average of 72.33, he currently stands as the tournament’s third-highest run-scorer. His campaign was highlighted by a brilliant century against Pakistan during the group stages, where he demonstrated his signature blend of aggression and finesse. In the semi-final against Australia, Kohli once again proved his mettle in high-pressure situations. Chasing a target of 265, he anchored the innings with a composed 84 off 98 balls, guiding India to a four-wicket win. His ability to rotate the strike and build partnerships was pivotal in this successful chase. Kane Williamson: The epitome of consistency Kane Williamson has been the cornerstone of New Zealand’s batting lineup in this tournament. Despite a rare failure against Pakistan, where he was dismissed for just one run, Williamson showcased resilience and class in subsequent matches. In the semi-final against South Africa, he delivered a stellar performance, scoring 102 runs off 94 balls. This innings not only propelled New Zealand to a formidable total but also marked his 15th ODI century. His partnership of 164 runs with Rachin Ravindra was instrumental in setting up the victory, underscoring his knack for rising to the occasion in crucial matches. The duel As India and New Zealand prepare to face off in the final, the spotlight inevitably falls on these two maestros. Kohli’s prowess in chasing targets and Williamson’s ability to anchor innings make them linchpins for their respective teams. Their performances have not only been pivotal in their teams’ journeys to the final but also exemplify their leadership qualities and cricketing understanding. In a tournament where both India and New Zealand have displayed exceptional skill and tenacity, the final promises to be a fitting climax. The contributions of Kohli and Williamson will undoubtedly be central to the outcome, as both seek to etch their names in Champions Trophy history by leading their nations to glory.

Champions Trophy: Will Kohli’s fire outshine Williamson’s ice?

<p>Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has handpicked middle order batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shreyas-iyer" rel="dofollow">Shreyas Iyer</a> as India&rsquo;s trump card for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025</a> final against New Zealand in Dubai this Sunday. Ashwin, who announced his international retirement midway through BGT late last year, admitted Iyer&rsquo;s form has helped India in more than one way, with ace batter Virat Kohli excelling at number three because of him.</p>
<p>Iyer (at number four) has been the best thing that happened to Indian cricket in a long time. Although injuries ate a lot of his career in the beginning, with his tussle with the BCCI over disobeying orders adding fuel to the fire, his return to the ODI setup boosted India&rsquo;s chances of becoming the first team ever to win three Champions Trophy titles.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistani-speedster-mohammad-amir-likely-to-land-ipl-deal-in-2026-for-this-reason-8833519" rel="dofollow">Pakistani speedster Mohammad Amir likely to land IPL deal in 2026 for THIS reason</a></strong></p>
<p>Iyer made merry during the home ODI World Cup a couple of years ago, scoring twin hundreds during the tournament, and even this time in Dubai, he hasn&rsquo;t let his guard down, delivering in almost every game for the Men in Blue. The right-handed batter has amassed 195 runs in four innings this time, with his handy knocks coming against Pakistan (group stage) and Australia in the crucial semis tie.</p>
<p>While against the arch-rivals, Iyer and Kohli stitched a 114-run stand for the third wicket, helping India complete the chase, they added 91 against the mighty Aussies in the semis, putting India in front to complete another win.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&ldquo;For me, the game-changer will be Shreyas Iyer. It is because of his recent form. This guy has had an excellent 2023 World Cup. He has batted well against New Zealand. He has played well at the Wankhede in Mumbai. And once again, in this tournament, he has looked crackerjack," Ashwin said on his YouTube channel 'Ash Ki Baat'.</p>
<p>&ldquo;He has worked well on his short-ball game as well. Of course, he got out in the last game. But it shouldn&rsquo;t matter. I think this is Shreyas Iyer&rsquo;s biggest strength. He wants to get better at what he is not good at,&rdquo; Ashwin added.</p>
<h2>How did it help Kohli?</h2>
<p>Iyer&rsquo;s form (especially against the spin) strengthened India's chances to stay ahead in each game, as Kohli, who bats at number three, also benefitted from it. Ashwin explains how.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-india-vice-captain-shubman-gill-eyes-redemption-says-patience-will-be-key-in-final-8833428" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy: India vice-captain Shubman Gill eyes redemption, says patience will be key in final</a></strong></p>
<p>&ldquo;The way he (Iyer) plays, it helps Virat Kohli. There was a question with Gauti in the press conference. What was the conversation with Virat? Because he got out against a leg-spinner. Gauti gave an amazing answer. A guy has played 300 games. Obviously, he will get out. But apart from that, there is one thing: Virat Kohli is able to play the way he is playing because Shreyas Iyer is playing this way against spin."</p>
<p>&ldquo;So, the captains are in a catch-22 situation. There will be a partnership between Shreyas and Virat. When there is a partnership between Virat and Shreyas, the captains can&rsquo;t enforce a spin choke."&nbsp;</p>
<p>&ldquo;Shreyas is removing all the pressure from Virat. So, these two in the middle overs have forged a formidable pair. And for Virat&rsquo;s success, Shreyas Iyer has played a part in it. And for Shreyas&rsquo; success, Virat has a part in it. Because this is what people call playing in partnerships," Ashwin concluded.&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Cricket, Sports: While Kohli has scored 217 runs in four matches this edition, his partner-in-crime Shreyas Iyer has amassed 195, scoring two fifties, the second-most in CT 2025.

Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has handpicked middle order batter Shreyas Iyer as India’s trump card for the Champions Trophy 2025 final against New Zealand in Dubai this Sunday. Ashwin, who announced his international retirement midway through BGT late last year, admitted Iyer’s form has helped India in more than one way, with ace batter Virat Kohli excelling at number three because of him. Iyer (at number four) has been the best thing that happened to Indian cricket in a long time. Although injuries ate a lot of his career in the beginning, with his tussle with the BCCI over disobeying orders adding fuel to the fire, his return to the ODI setup boosted India’s chances of becoming the first team ever to win three Champions Trophy titles. Also read | Pakistani speedster Mohammad Amir likely to land IPL deal in 2026 for THIS reason Iyer made merry during the home ODI World Cup a couple of years ago, scoring twin hundreds during the tournament, and even this time in Dubai, he hasn’t let his guard down, delivering in almost every game for the Men in Blue. The right-handed batter has amassed 195 runs in four innings this time, with his handy knocks coming against Pakistan (group stage) and Australia in the crucial semis tie. While against the arch-rivals, Iyer and Kohli stitched a 114-run stand for the third wicket, helping India complete the chase, they added 91 against the mighty Aussies in the semis, putting India in front to complete another win. “For me, the game-changer will be Shreyas Iyer. It is because of his recent form. This guy has had an excellent 2023 World Cup. He has batted well against New Zealand. He has played well at the Wankhede in Mumbai. And once again, in this tournament, he has looked crackerjack," Ashwin said on his YouTube channel 'Ash Ki Baat'. “He has worked well on his short-ball game as well. Of course, he got out in the last game. But it shouldn’t matter. I think this is Shreyas Iyer’s biggest strength. He wants to get better at what he is not good at,” Ashwin added. How did it help Kohli? Iyer’s form (especially against the spin) strengthened India's chances to stay ahead in each game, as Kohli, who bats at number three, also benefitted from it. Ashwin explains how. Also read | Champions Trophy: India vice-captain Shubman Gill eyes redemption, says patience will be key in final “The way he (Iyer) plays, it helps Virat Kohli. There was a question with Gauti in the press conference. What was the conversation with Virat? Because he got out against a leg-spinner. Gauti gave an amazing answer. A guy has played 300 games. Obviously, he will get out. But apart from that, there is one thing: Virat Kohli is able to play the way he is playing because Shreyas Iyer is playing this way against spin." “So, the captains are in a catch-22 situation. There will be a partnership between Shreyas and Virat. When there is a partnership between Virat and Shreyas, the captains can’t enforce a spin choke." “Shreyas is removing all the pressure from Virat. So, these two in the middle overs have forged a formidable pair. And for Virat’s success, Shreyas Iyer has played a part in it. And for Shreyas’ success, Virat has a part in it. Because this is what people call playing in partnerships," Ashwin concluded. (With inputs from agencies)

IND vs NZ Champions Trophy final: Ashwin handpicks India’s trump card for Dubai showdown

<p>Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed realised his childhood dream of bowling to Virat Kohli during the India vs Pakistan <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025</a> tie in Dubai late last month. Playing his first ICC tournament, Abrar was the best of all Pakistani bowlers used against India, going for just 28 in his ten overs, including picking one wicket of the vice-captain Shubman Gill.</p>
<p>Though Kohli enjoyed scoring against Pakistan, perhaps his favourite opponent across white-ball formats, he failed to find ways to do it against the leg-spinner, who kept the Indian batters quiet during the chase.</p>
<p>Against Pakistan, Kohli completed his 51st ODI hundred, helping <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/at-36-kohlis-record-shattering-century-guides-india-to-famous-victory-against-pakistan-8750296" rel="dofollow">India chase the target with five wickets remaining</a>. Even midway through the match, Kohli acknowledged Abrar&rsquo;s bowling just after he finished his spell by approaching and congratulating him.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/watch-virat-kohli-appreciates-pakistan-spinner-abrar-ahmed-for-tight-spell-in-dubai-showdown-champions-trophy-8752581" rel="dofollow">Watch - Kohli appreciates Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed for tight spell in Dubai showdown</a></strong></p>
<p>Both teams, however, suffered contrasting fates during the tournament. While the host Pakistan got knocked out after losing to India (just six days into the event), India reached the grand finale scheduled against New Zealand this Sunday in Dubai.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Meanwhile, more than a week since that game, Abrar opened up about bowling to Kohli in the high-octane tie, praising the Indian batting great for his modesty on the field.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&ldquo;My childhood dream of bowling to Kohli has come true in Dubai. It was a great challenge, and I took the liberty of teasing him, asking him to hit me a six, but he never got angry. Kohli is a great batter, we all know that. But he is a great human being too,&rdquo; Abrar said in a chat with Telecom Asia Sport, as quoted by Hindustan Times.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>How Kohli&rsquo;s appreciation won his heart</h2>
<p>Talking about that particular incident, Abrar said Kohli praising him won his heart.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-champions-trophy-final-why-dubai-hosting-india-games-making-everyone-hate-watching-indian-cricket-8827057" rel="dofollow">IND vs NZ Champions Trophy Final | Why are fans 'hate-watching' Indian cricket?</a></strong></p>
<p>&ldquo;He said, &lsquo;well bowled&rsquo; after the match, and that made my day,&rdquo; the 26-year-old added. &ldquo;I have grown up idolising Kohli and used to tell Under-19 players that one day I will bowl to him.&rdquo;</p>
<h3>Gill&rsquo;s wicket celebration</h3>
<p>Of all the things that made headlines during the India vs Pakistan game, Abrar&rsquo;s over-the-top celebration after dismissing Gill made the most noise. Abrar said it&rsquo;s his style of celebrating the wicket and that he finds nothing wrong in this.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>Watch Video -</h3>
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<p>&ldquo;That's my style, and I see nothing wrong with it. No official told me that I did anything wrong, but if it hurt anyone, I am sorry for that. It was not my intention to hurt anyone,&rdquo; the spinner concluded.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Sports, Cricket: Though Kohli scored his 51st ODI hundred against Pakistan in Dubai, helping India win the game, he failed to find ways to score runs against the leg-spinner.

Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed realised his childhood dream of bowling to Virat Kohli during the India vs Pakistan Champions Trophy 2025 tie in Dubai late last month. Playing his first ICC tournament, Abrar was the best of all Pakistani bowlers used against India, going for just 28 in his ten overs, including picking one wicket of the vice-captain Shubman Gill. Though Kohli enjoyed scoring against Pakistan, perhaps his favourite opponent across white-ball formats, he failed to find ways to do it against the leg-spinner, who kept the Indian batters quiet during the chase. Against Pakistan, Kohli completed his 51st ODI hundred, helping India chase the target with five wickets remaining. Even midway through the match, Kohli acknowledged Abrar’s bowling just after he finished his spell by approaching and congratulating him. Also read | Watch - Kohli appreciates Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed for tight spell in Dubai showdown Both teams, however, suffered contrasting fates during the tournament. While the host Pakistan got knocked out after losing to India (just six days into the event), India reached the grand finale scheduled against New Zealand this Sunday in Dubai. Meanwhile, more than a week since that game, Abrar opened up about bowling to Kohli in the high-octane tie, praising the Indian batting great for his modesty on the field. “My childhood dream of bowling to Kohli has come true in Dubai. It was a great challenge, and I took the liberty of teasing him, asking him to hit me a six, but he never got angry. Kohli is a great batter, we all know that. But he is a great human being too,” Abrar said in a chat with Telecom Asia Sport, as quoted by Hindustan Times. How Kohli’s appreciation won his heart Talking about that particular incident, Abrar said Kohli praising him won his heart. Also read | IND vs NZ Champions Trophy Final | Why are fans 'hate-watching' Indian cricket? “He said, ‘well bowled’ after the match, and that made my day,” the 26-year-old added. “I have grown up idolising Kohli and used to tell Under-19 players that one day I will bowl to him.” Gill’s wicket celebration Of all the things that made headlines during the India vs Pakistan game, Abrar’s over-the-top celebration after dismissing Gill made the most noise. Abrar said it’s his style of celebrating the wicket and that he finds nothing wrong in this. Watch Video - View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) “That's my style, and I see nothing wrong with it. No official told me that I did anything wrong, but if it hurt anyone, I am sorry for that. It was not my intention to hurt anyone,” the spinner concluded. (With inputs from agencies)

How Kohli won Abrar Ahmed's heart after thrashing Pakistan in Champions Trophy

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli" rel="dofollow">Virat Kohli</a> has scored 14,180 runs in One-Dayers, making him the second-highest run-scorer in this format, only behind veteran batters Kumar Sangakkara (14,234) and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sachin-tendulkar" rel="dofollow">Sachin Tendulkar</a> (18,426); he, however, is also among the top three run-getters for England in ODIs, and all without hitting even a single boundary.</p>
<p>Strange, right? Here&rsquo;s how it is.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Regarding runs scored (for England) in ODIs, Kohli is only behind World Cup-winning captain Eoin Morgan and star batter Joe Root.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Wait, What?</h2>
<p>Midway through the India-Australia semi-final clash in Dubai on Tuesday, a stat featured on live television showing Virat has scored over 5800 (and counting)* runs just in singles, with only Morgan (7701 &ndash; ODI career runs) and Root (6859 &ndash; ODI career runs) ahead of him for England. Putting that into perspective, this is an unbelievable feat by Kohli - a testament to his greatness as an ODI batter.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-champions-trophy-final-why-dubai-hosting-india-games-making-everyone-hate-watching-indian-cricket-8827057" rel="dofollow">IND vs NZ Champions Trophy Final | Why are fans 'hate-watching' Indian cricket?</a></strong></p>
<p>On that particular list, Kohli is followed by the Sri Lankan pair of Kumar Sangakkara (5,688) and Mahela Jayawardene (5,046), alongside veteran Indian captain MS Dhoni (4,474) and former South Africa all-rounder Jacques Kallis (4,057).</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7x8zcij-jpt7he51-wjohhwjv">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">That's a fine stat. <a href="https://t.co/nLvovF5cSn">pic.twitter.com/nLvovF5cSn</a></p>
&mdash; Vinayakk (@vinayakkm) <a href="https://twitter.com/vinayakkm/status/1896947470128820521?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h3>Kohli&rsquo;s purple patch</h3>
<p>Great players never go out of form, and Kohli&rsquo;s purple patch in the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a> is an example. Kohli began the tournament with a sluggish 22 before returning to his best against his favourite opponent, Pakistan, scoring a match-winning 100* while chasing.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Against New Zealand in India&rsquo;s next league match, Kohli got out early on 11 before again hitting top form against Australia in the crucial semis clash, hitting another match-winning 84. India chased 265 with four wickets remaining, punching their final ticket.</p>
<p>With 217 runs in four innings, Kohli is fourth on the chart of batters with the most runs in this competition, with the English duo of Ben Duckett 1st - (227) and Joe Root 3rd - (225) among the top three. New Zealand opener Rachin Ravindra is second on the list with 226 runs in three matches, including two centuries in his maiden CT edition.</p>
<h3>India-New Zealand final</h3>
<p>India and New Zealand will face off in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final this Sunday in Dubai. While India has maintained its winning streak, New Zealand lost just one (that to India). On Wednesday, New Zealand beat South Africa by 50 runs to qualify for the summit clash.&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Sports, Cricket: The number of runs Virat Kohli has scored by just taking singles in ODIs is more than several star players worldwide, with the list including plenty ex-captains.

Virat Kohli has scored 14,180 runs in One-Dayers, making him the second-highest run-scorer in this format, only behind veteran batters Kumar Sangakkara (14,234) and Sachin Tendulkar (18,426); he, however, is also among the top three run-getters for England in ODIs, and all without hitting even a single boundary. Strange, right? Here’s how it is. Regarding runs scored (for England) in ODIs, Kohli is only behind World Cup-winning captain Eoin Morgan and star batter Joe Root. Wait, What? Midway through the India-Australia semi-final clash in Dubai on Tuesday, a stat featured on live television showing Virat has scored over 5800 (and counting)* runs just in singles, with only Morgan (7701 – ODI career runs) and Root (6859 – ODI career runs) ahead of him for England. Putting that into perspective, this is an unbelievable feat by Kohli - a testament to his greatness as an ODI batter. Also read | IND vs NZ Champions Trophy Final | Why are fans 'hate-watching' Indian cricket? On that particular list, Kohli is followed by the Sri Lankan pair of Kumar Sangakkara (5,688) and Mahela Jayawardene (5,046), alongside veteran Indian captain MS Dhoni (4,474) and former South Africa all-rounder Jacques Kallis (4,057). That's a fine stat. pic.twitter.com/nLvovF5cSn — Vinayakk (@vinayakkm) March 4, 2025 Kohli’s purple patch Great players never go out of form, and Kohli’s purple patch in the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is an example. Kohli began the tournament with a sluggish 22 before returning to his best against his favourite opponent, Pakistan, scoring a match-winning 100* while chasing. Against New Zealand in India’s next league match, Kohli got out early on 11 before again hitting top form against Australia in the crucial semis clash, hitting another match-winning 84. India chased 265 with four wickets remaining, punching their final ticket. With 217 runs in four innings, Kohli is fourth on the chart of batters with the most runs in this competition, with the English duo of Ben Duckett 1st - (227) and Joe Root 3rd - (225) among the top three. New Zealand opener Rachin Ravindra is second on the list with 226 runs in three matches, including two centuries in his maiden CT edition. India-New Zealand final India and New Zealand will face off in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final this Sunday in Dubai. While India has maintained its winning streak, New Zealand lost just one (that to India). On Wednesday, New Zealand beat South Africa by 50 runs to qualify for the summit clash. (With inputs from agencies)

India’s best batter Virat Kohli is third-highest ODI run scorer for 'England'. Know how

<p>Virat Kohli played another superb innings as India chased down 265 against Australia to enter the Champions Trophy 2025 Final. Kohli top scored with 84 off 98 balls for India which included only 20 runs from boundaries and a whopping 53 singles. The innings was similar to Kohli's 100 against Pakistan in the group stage clash when he scored 72 runs from singles and doubles with only seven fours.</p>
<p>During the innings, Kohli also crossed 8000-run mark in ODI cricket while chasing and became only the second batter in the world to do so after Sachin Tendulkar. Kohli now has 8,063 runs in ODIs while chasing, only behind Tendulkar's 8,720.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also Read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-skipper-rohit-creates-history-become-first-captain-in-the-world-cricket-to-8795457">India skipper Rohit creates history, become first captain in the world cricket to...</a></p>
<h2><strong>Here's the list of batters with most ODIs runs while chasing:</strong></h2>
<ul>
<li>Sachin Tendulkar (India) - 8,720 runs</li>
<li>Virat Kohli (India) - 8,063 runs</li>
<li>Rohit Sharma (India) - 6,115 runs</li>
<li>Sanath Jayasuriya (Sri Lanka) - 5,742 runs</li>
<li>Jacques Kallis (South Africa) - 5,575 runs</li>
</ul>
<p>Kohli is known as the best chaser in the world and it is clearly visible in his numbers. The batter has amassed his second innings runs at an average of 64.50 with record 28 hundreds and 41 fifties. His 183 is the joint highest score in an ODI chase along with former India skipper MS Dhoni's 183 not out.</p>
<p>Kohli's 84 was also his 24th 50-plus score in ICC ODI events (World Cup and Champions Trophy) - the most by any batter and one more than second best Sachin's 23.</p>
<p>Kohli also has seven fifty-plus scores in Champions Trophy - also the most for any batter. He went past Sourav Ganguly, Rahul Dravid and Shikhar Dhawan for the record who all have six fifty-plus scores in Champions Trophy.</p>
<p>This is the third time Kohli has a fifty in a Champions Trophy semis - the other two occasions were 58 not out against Sri Lanka in 2023 and 96 not out against Bangladesh in 2017.&nbsp;</p>

Kohli is known as the best chaser in the world and it is clearly visible in his numbers. The batter has amassed his second innings runs at an average of 64.50 with record 28 100s and 41 50s.

Virat Kohli played another superb innings as India chased down 265 against Australia to enter the Champions Trophy 2025 Final. Kohli top scored with 84 off 98 balls for India which included only 20 runs from boundaries and a whopping 53 singles. The innings was similar to Kohli's 100 against Pakistan in the group stage clash when he scored 72 runs from singles and doubles with only seven fours. During the innings, Kohli also crossed 8000-run mark in ODI cricket while chasing and became only the second batter in the world to do so after Sachin Tendulkar. Kohli now has 8,063 runs in ODIs while chasing, only behind Tendulkar's 8,720. Also Read: India skipper Rohit creates history, become first captain in the world cricket to... Here's the list of batters with most ODIs runs while chasing: Sachin Tendulkar (India) - 8,720 runs Virat Kohli (India) - 8,063 runs Rohit Sharma (India) - 6,115 runs Sanath Jayasuriya (Sri Lanka) - 5,742 runs Jacques Kallis (South Africa) - 5,575 runs Kohli is known as the best chaser in the world and it is clearly visible in his numbers. The batter has amassed his second innings runs at an average of 64.50 with record 28 hundreds and 41 fifties. His 183 is the joint highest score in an ODI chase along with former India skipper MS Dhoni's 183 not out. Kohli's 84 was also his 24th 50-plus score in ICC ODI events (World Cup and Champions Trophy) - the most by any batter and one more than second best Sachin's 23. Kohli also has seven fifty-plus scores in Champions Trophy - also the most for any batter. He went past Sourav Ganguly, Rahul Dravid and Shikhar Dhawan for the record who all have six fifty-plus scores in Champions Trophy. This is the third time Kohli has a fifty in a Champions Trophy semis - the other two occasions were 58 not out against Sri Lanka in 2023 and 96 not out against Bangladesh in 2017.

'8,063 ODI runs': Virat Kohli still second best batter in chase, even with 28 hundreds

<p data-start="0" data-end="243">India&rsquo;s batting star, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a>, compared his match-winning knock in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> semi-final against Australia to his unbeaten century against Pakistan, stressing the importance of strike rotation in the prevailing conditions.</p>
<p data-start="245" data-end="602">Kohli played a crucial role in India's successful chase of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/australia-cricket">Australia</a>&rsquo;s 265-run target on a challenging pitch, scoring a composed 84 off 98 balls. Though he couldn&rsquo;t finish the game, his innings laid the foundation for a comfortable victory. Similar to his approach against Pakistan, Kohli relied on quick singles and doubles, hitting only five boundaries.</p>
<p data-start="604" data-end="828">"It was quite similar to the other day against Pakistan. Understanding the conditions and rotating the strike is crucial because partnerships matter on this pitch," Kohli said after receiving the Player of the Match award.</p>
<p data-start="604" data-end="828"><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-ahead-of-the-semi-final-here-is-what-sa-skipper-bavuma-said-about-nzs-williamson-8788206">Champions Trophy: Ahead of semi-final, HERE is what SA skipper Bavuma said about NZ's Williamson</a></strong></p>
<h2 data-start="604" data-end="828"><strong>'My approach depends on conditions'</strong></h2>
<p data-start="830" data-end="936">His knock showcased his exceptional fitness, with 56 singles and four twos forming the bulk of his runs.&nbsp;"My approach depends on the conditions. I focused on my timing, stayed composed, and didn&rsquo;t feel rushed. The singles I took were the most satisfying part of my innings," he added.</p>
<p data-start="1121" data-end="1218">Kohli highlighted the mental aspect of the game, stressing the importance of handling pressure.&nbsp;"If you go deep into the game, the opposition usually gives in. Controlling impulses is key. Even if the required run rate is six per over, I don&rsquo;t worry," he explained.</p>
<p data-start="1393" data-end="1489">When asked if he was in the best phase of his ODI career, the Indian maestro remained unfazed.&nbsp;"I don&rsquo;t know. That&rsquo;s for others to analyse. I never focus on those things. Milestones happen when you don&rsquo;t chase them. If I reach a hundred, great, but the win is what matters. Those things don&rsquo;t concern me anymore," Kohli signed off.</p>
<p data-start="1393" data-end="1489"><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>
<p data-start="1393" data-end="1489">&nbsp;</p>
<p data-start="1393" data-end="1489">&nbsp;</p>

Cricket, Sports: Kohli played a crucial role in India's successful chase of Australia’s 265-run target on a challenging pitch, scoring a composed 84 off 98 balls

India’s batting star, Virat Kohli, compared his match-winning knock in the Champions Trophy semi-final against Australia to his unbeaten century against Pakistan, stressing the importance of strike rotation in the prevailing conditions. Kohli played a crucial role in India's successful chase of Australia’s 265-run target on a challenging pitch, scoring a composed 84 off 98 balls. Though he couldn’t finish the game, his innings laid the foundation for a comfortable victory. Similar to his approach against Pakistan, Kohli relied on quick singles and doubles, hitting only five boundaries. "It was quite similar to the other day against Pakistan. Understanding the conditions and rotating the strike is crucial because partnerships matter on this pitch," Kohli said after receiving the Player of the Match award. Also Read: Champions Trophy: Ahead of semi-final, HERE is what SA skipper Bavuma said about NZ's Williamson 'My approach depends on conditions' His knock showcased his exceptional fitness, with 56 singles and four twos forming the bulk of his runs. "My approach depends on the conditions. I focused on my timing, stayed composed, and didn’t feel rushed. The singles I took were the most satisfying part of my innings," he added. Kohli highlighted the mental aspect of the game, stressing the importance of handling pressure. "If you go deep into the game, the opposition usually gives in. Controlling impulses is key. Even if the required run rate is six per over, I don’t worry," he explained. When asked if he was in the best phase of his ODI career, the Indian maestro remained unfazed. "I don’t know. That’s for others to analyse. I never focus on those things. Milestones happen when you don’t chase them. If I reach a hundred, great, but the win is what matters. Those things don’t concern me anymore," Kohli signed off. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy: Kohli compares semi-final knock to Pakistan century, says strike rotation is crucial

<p>India player Virat Kohli knocked off another ODI record during the Champions Trophy semi-final against Australia on Mar 4 in Dubai. Kohli took two catches while India were bowling and surpassed former Aussie skipper Ricky Ponting for most catches as a fielder in ODIs.</p>
<p>Kohli, who had previously gone past Mohammed Azharuddin to become the best Indian fielder in ODIs, now has 161 ODI catches to his name&mdash;second only to former Sri Lanka great Mahela Jayawardene.</p>
<p><strong>Also Watch:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/73-and-gone-steve-smith-bats-for-95-balls-then-misses-full-toss-to-get-bowled-in-champions-trophy-semis-australia-vs-india-watch-8778516">'73 and gone': Aussie Steve Smith bats for 95 balls then misses full toss to get bowled</a></p>
<p><strong>Here's the list of fielders with most catches in ODIs:</strong></p>
<p>1. Mahela Jayawardene: 218 catches in 443 ODI innings</p>
<p>2. Virat Kohli: 161 catches in 298 ODI innings</p>
<p>3. Ricky Ponting: 160 catches in 372 ODI innings</p>
<p>4. Mohd. Azharuddin: 156 catches in 332 ODI innings</p>
<p>5. Ross Taylor: 142 catches in 232 ODI innings</p>
<h2><strong>Australia set India 265 to win</strong></h2>
<p>Australia won the toss and elected to bat first against India. The decision was proven wrong quickly as Mohammed Shami dismissed Cooper Connolly for a duck off nine balls.<br><br>Travis Head, India's nemesis in recent ICC tournaments, then took on the India attack and especially Shami as he hit the bowler for four fours in an over.</p>
<p>Rohit then did what former spinner Ravi Ashwin had advised on his YouTube channel a day prior to the match. The skipper handed the ball to mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy, and he dismissed Head on the very first ball.</p>
<p>Australia finished the first powerplay of 10 overs at 63/2 with Head making 39 off them off just 33 balls, including five fours and two sixes. At the half-way mark of the innings, i.e., 25 overs, Australia were 125/3 with Smith looking fluent.</p>
<p>With Shami dismissing Smith on 73, Australia were bundled out for 264 in 49.3 overs. For India, Shami took 3/48 while Jadeja and Chakaravarthy picked two wickets apiece.</p>

Kohli, who had previously gone past Azharuddin to become the best Indian fielder in ODIs, now has 161 ODI catches to his name—second only to former Sri Lanka great Mahela Jayawardene. Cricket Sports

India player Virat Kohli knocked off another ODI record during the Champions Trophy semi-final against Australia on Mar 4 in Dubai. Kohli took two catches while India were bowling and surpassed former Aussie skipper Ricky Ponting for most catches as a fielder in ODIs. Kohli, who had previously gone past Mohammed Azharuddin to become the best Indian fielder in ODIs, now has 161 ODI catches to his name—second only to former Sri Lanka great Mahela Jayawardene. Also Watch: '73 and gone': Aussie Steve Smith bats for 95 balls then misses full toss to get bowled Here's the list of fielders with most catches in ODIs: 1. Mahela Jayawardene: 218 catches in 443 ODI innings 2. Virat Kohli: 161 catches in 298 ODI innings 3. Ricky Ponting: 160 catches in 372 ODI innings 4. Mohd. Azharuddin: 156 catches in 332 ODI innings 5. Ross Taylor: 142 catches in 232 ODI innings Australia set India 265 to win Australia won the toss and elected to bat first against India. The decision was proven wrong quickly as Mohammed Shami dismissed Cooper Connolly for a duck off nine balls. Travis Head, India's nemesis in recent ICC tournaments, then took on the India attack and especially Shami as he hit the bowler for four fours in an over. Rohit then did what former spinner Ravi Ashwin had advised on his YouTube channel a day prior to the match. The skipper handed the ball to mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy, and he dismissed Head on the very first ball. Australia finished the first powerplay of 10 overs at 63/2 with Head making 39 off them off just 33 balls, including five fours and two sixes. At the half-way mark of the innings, i.e., 25 overs, Australia were 125/3 with Smith looking fluent. With Shami dismissing Smith on 73, Australia were bundled out for 264 in 49.3 overs. For India, Shami took 3/48 while Jadeja and Chakaravarthy picked two wickets apiece.

'161 and counting': India's Virat Kohli becomes world's second best fielder

<p>India has stamped its authority in the ongoing ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> 2025, cruising through the group stage unbeaten. With three clinical wins under their belt, the Men in Blue have set the stage for a high-stakes semi-final clash against Australia in Dubai on Tuesday (March 4).</p>
<p>From a fiery opening win against Bangladesh to a high-voltage triumph over arch-rivals Pakistan and a commanding performance against New Zealand, Rohit Sharma's men have showcased a perfect blend of skill, depth, and resilience. As they gear up for the knockout battle, WION takes a closer look at their dominant journey so far.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-i-always-believe-former-coach-shastri-backs-varun-to-come-good-in-semis-8774663">Champions Trophy: 'I always believe...,' former coach Shastri backs Varun to come good in semis</a></strong></p>
<h2>Beat Bangladesh by six wickets</h2>
<p>India's tournament opener saw them prevail in a tight contest against Bangladesh in Dubai, registering a sizzling six-wicket win to begin their campaign on a winning note.&nbsp;Pacer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mohammed-shami">Mohammed Shami</a>'s impressive 5/53, combined with three wickets from Harshit Rana and two from Axar Patel, restricted Bangladesh to 228.</p>
<p>Shubman Gill's unbeaten 101*, combined with stylish knocks from Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul, ensured smooth sailing for India as they chased down the total with 21 balls to spare.</p>
<h2>Dominant win over arch-rivals</h2>
<p>In their high-voltage clash against arch-rivals Pakistan, India displayed their all-round prowess by chasing down 241 runs with six wickets in hand yet again.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/kuldeep-yadav">Kuldeep Yadav</a> weaved his magic for the Indian side by taking three crucial wickets to bundle out Pakistan for 241 in 49.4 overs. Shubman Gill (46) and Shreyas Iyer (56) came in handy with some crucial knocks, but the age-old rivalry was marked primarily by a Virat Kohli masterclass that saw him score an unbeaten 100 to steer India to victory.</p>
<h2>Beat New Zealand by 44 runs</h2>
<p>A different challenge for Rohit Sharma's side in the form of New Zealand, with the winner staying unbeaten in the tournament and earning top spot in Group A.</p>
<p>New Zealand's bowlers did well to restrict India's batting line-up, with Shreyas Iyer (79) and Hardik Pandya (45) leading the way as the Men in Blue posted a competitive total of 249/9 after they were put to bat first.</p>
<p>It was a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/varun-chakaravarthy">Varun Chakravarthy</a> show in reply, with the spinner claiming an impressive five-wicket haul to help bowl New Zealand bundle out for 205 in reply as India progressed through to the final four with their unbeaten record intact.</p>

Cricket, Sports: Three dominating wins from as many matches have India in fine form ahead of their knockout semi-final against Australia in Dubai on Tuesday (March 4)

India has stamped its authority in the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025, cruising through the group stage unbeaten. With three clinical wins under their belt, the Men in Blue have set the stage for a high-stakes semi-final clash against Australia in Dubai on Tuesday (March 4). From a fiery opening win against Bangladesh to a high-voltage triumph over arch-rivals Pakistan and a commanding performance against New Zealand, Rohit Sharma's men have showcased a perfect blend of skill, depth, and resilience. As they gear up for the knockout battle, WION takes a closer look at their dominant journey so far. Also Read: Champions Trophy: 'I always believe...,' former coach Shastri backs Varun to come good in semis Beat Bangladesh by six wickets India's tournament opener saw them prevail in a tight contest against Bangladesh in Dubai, registering a sizzling six-wicket win to begin their campaign on a winning note. Pacer Mohammed Shami's impressive 5/53, combined with three wickets from Harshit Rana and two from Axar Patel, restricted Bangladesh to 228. Shubman Gill's unbeaten 101*, combined with stylish knocks from Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul, ensured smooth sailing for India as they chased down the total with 21 balls to spare. Dominant win over arch-rivals In their high-voltage clash against arch-rivals Pakistan, India displayed their all-round prowess by chasing down 241 runs with six wickets in hand yet again. Kuldeep Yadav weaved his magic for the Indian side by taking three crucial wickets to bundle out Pakistan for 241 in 49.4 overs. Shubman Gill (46) and Shreyas Iyer (56) came in handy with some crucial knocks, but the age-old rivalry was marked primarily by a Virat Kohli masterclass that saw him score an unbeaten 100 to steer India to victory. Beat New Zealand by 44 runs A different challenge for Rohit Sharma's side in the form of New Zealand, with the winner staying unbeaten in the tournament and earning top spot in Group A. New Zealand's bowlers did well to restrict India's batting line-up, with Shreyas Iyer (79) and Hardik Pandya (45) leading the way as the Men in Blue posted a competitive total of 249/9 after they were put to bat first. It was a Varun Chakravarthy show in reply, with the spinner claiming an impressive five-wicket haul to help bowl New Zealand bundle out for 205 in reply as India progressed through to the final four with their unbeaten record intact.

Champions Trophy 2025: Recapping India's road to semi-finals

<p>Ace India batter Virat Kohli touched Axar Patel&rsquo;s feet in a light moment during India vs New Zealand <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy</a> tie in Dubai. On Sunday evening (Mar 2), <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/live-score-online-ind-vs-nz-champions-trophy-2025-india-vs-new-zealand-live-today-cricket-match-from-dubai-toss-ball-by-ball-commentary-8770619" rel="dofollow">India beat the Kiwis by 44 runs</a> to finish at the top of Group A. However, during the second innings, after Axar removed Kane Williamson on the last ball of his spell, Kohli rushed to him to touch his feet, indicating how crucial Kane&rsquo;s dismissal was.</p>
<h3>Watch the Video &ndash;</h3>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7sm6cao-db94va8r-eca161mh">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Kohli touching Axar Patel's feet after he got Williamson out 😭<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kohli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AxarPatel?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AxarPatel</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChampionsTrophy2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChampionsTrophy2025</a> <a href="https://t.co/mJmgQ95Y15">pic.twitter.com/mJmgQ95Y15</a></p>
&mdash; Tarun Lulla (@ayotarun) <a href="https://twitter.com/ayotarun/status/1896229035870728223?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2025</a></blockquote>
<p>India batted first in their final league game in Dubai. After losing three wickets inside the Powerplay, including (that of) Kohli's, who got out caught at point (on 11) - courtesy of a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/glenn-phillips-catch-reaction-kohli-stunned-anushka-holds-head-in-disbelief-watch-champions-trophy-dubai-8771134" rel="dofollow">Glenn Phillips&rsquo; blinder</a>, Axar and Shreyas steadied India&rsquo;s sinking ship. The pair added 98 runs for the fourth wicket before Axar miscued one off Rachin Ravindra on a well-made 42.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Hardik Pandya produced a stunning show at the end, and alongside Iyer&rsquo;s heroics (79), India scored 249 for nine in the first innings.</p>
<p>Spin was always going to play a massive role in this game, which it did as the Indian spinners picked nine of the ten fallen wickets. While mystery spinner <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/varun-chakaravarthy-has-got-something-different-creates-good-selection-headache-rohit-sharma-8772031" rel="dofollow">Varun Chakaravarthy starred with the ball</a>, picking his maiden five-for, Patel&rsquo;s contribution was crucial (throughout).&nbsp;</p>
<p>The left-handed all-rounder grabbed a stunner earlier at the third man, accounting for Rachin before bowling a tighter spell of one for 32 in ten overs to help India win its group-stage match.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Meanwhile, (at a time) when Kane was busy stitching partnerships with the middle order, he looked like breaking India&rsquo;s streak. Batting on 81 in the 41st over, Kane looked composed at the crease, trying to find ways to score runs and cut the target deficit. Coming down the track to Axar on the last ball of his spell, Kane missed the line and length altogether, eventually walking off without looking back, with gloveman KL Rahul completing an easy stumping.</p>
<h2>India to face Australia in semis</h2>
<p>Beating New Zealand meant India&rsquo;s semis opponent would be Australia, facing them on Tuesday in Dubai.&nbsp;</p>
<p>While Australia emerged victorious against India in two ICC finals in 2023, beating them in the WTC Final and the ODI World Cup Final, the Men in Blue took revenge at last year&rsquo;s T20 World Cup in the Americas by beating them in the group stage. &nbsp;</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Sports, Cricket: Axar produced an all-round show against New Zealand in Dubai. While he scored a crucial 42 in the first innings, his tight spell in the second helped India win.

Ace India batter Virat Kohli touched Axar Patel’s feet in a light moment during India vs New Zealand Champions Trophy tie in Dubai. On Sunday evening (Mar 2), India beat the Kiwis by 44 runs to finish at the top of Group A. However, during the second innings, after Axar removed Kane Williamson on the last ball of his spell, Kohli rushed to him to touch his feet, indicating how crucial Kane’s dismissal was. Watch the Video – Kohli touching Axar Patel's feet after he got Williamson out 😭#Kohli #AxarPatel #INDvNZ #ChampionsTrophy2025 pic.twitter.com/mJmgQ95Y15 — Tarun Lulla (@ayotarun) March 2, 2025 India batted first in their final league game in Dubai. After losing three wickets inside the Powerplay, including (that of) Kohli's, who got out caught at point (on 11) - courtesy of a Glenn Phillips’ blinder, Axar and Shreyas steadied India’s sinking ship. The pair added 98 runs for the fourth wicket before Axar miscued one off Rachin Ravindra on a well-made 42. Hardik Pandya produced a stunning show at the end, and alongside Iyer’s heroics (79), India scored 249 for nine in the first innings. Spin was always going to play a massive role in this game, which it did as the Indian spinners picked nine of the ten fallen wickets. While mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy starred with the ball, picking his maiden five-for, Patel’s contribution was crucial (throughout). The left-handed all-rounder grabbed a stunner earlier at the third man, accounting for Rachin before bowling a tighter spell of one for 32 in ten overs to help India win its group-stage match. Meanwhile, (at a time) when Kane was busy stitching partnerships with the middle order, he looked like breaking India’s streak. Batting on 81 in the 41st over, Kane looked composed at the crease, trying to find ways to score runs and cut the target deficit. Coming down the track to Axar on the last ball of his spell, Kane missed the line and length altogether, eventually walking off without looking back, with gloveman KL Rahul completing an easy stumping. India to face Australia in semis Beating New Zealand meant India’s semis opponent would be Australia, facing them on Tuesday in Dubai. While Australia emerged victorious against India in two ICC finals in 2023, beating them in the WTC Final and the ODI World Cup Final, the Men in Blue took revenge at last year’s T20 World Cup in the Americas by beating them in the group stage. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch – Kohli touches Axar Patel’s feet in light moment during New Zealand game in Dubai

<p>West Indies cricket legend <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/viv-richards">Sir Vivian Richards</a> lauded <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a>&rsquo;s relentless fighting spirit, energy, and passion, placing him among the game&rsquo;s 'great' and 'legendary' players.</p>
<p>Richards, a long-time admirer of Kohli&rsquo;s competitive edge, praised the Indian batter for silencing critics with his performances on the field. "He answers all of us, really," Richards said during a virtual interaction as part of the International Master League's governing council. "Before the ODI World Cup, people questioned his form, but he came back magnificently. That&rsquo;s the true testament of his character."</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/international-masters-league-once-marred-in-drug-controversy-former-india-spinner-takes-hat-trick-watch-8771387">International Masters League: Once marred in drug controversy, former India spinner takes hat-trick | WATCH</a></strong></p>
<p>Emphasising what makes Kohli special, the legendary West Indian added, "Not every player can bounce back when they are down. His fighting spirit, his energy, and his passion to do well make him stand out."</p>
<p>When asked about modern batters he admires, Richards singled out Kohli, saying he sees shades of himself in the Indian star.&nbsp;"Before, you had legends like <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sachin-tendulkar">Sachin Tendulkar</a>, who has retired. But in the present era, it&rsquo;s Virat Kohli. He reminds me of myself&mdash;fearless, always believing in himself, 120% confident. Whenever aggression is needed, he steps up."</p>
<p>Richards also appreciated Kohli&rsquo;s leadership qualities. "When you're a captain, you defend your team and represent your people. That&rsquo;s what Virat does. I love that about him."</p>
<h2>'Kohli can play till 50'</h2>
<p>Given Kohli&rsquo;s dedication to fitness and his hunger for success, Richards believes the star batter has a long road ahead.&nbsp;"With the way he looks after himself and the passion he has, who knows? He could still be playing at 50! He recently scored a century against Pakistan in Dubai, proving he&rsquo;s still at his best."</p>
<p>When asked to compare Kohli with Tendulkar, Richards refused to engage in such debates.&nbsp;"I don&rsquo;t believe in comparisons. Every great player has had their era, and fans have been fortunate to witness them. We should appreciate each player for their contribution rather than compare."</p>
<p>Richards also urged patience with Indian skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma">Rohit Sharma</a>, who has had inconsistent form.&nbsp;"You have to give him time. He&rsquo;s had ups and downs, but let&rsquo;s see how he performs when it matters most&mdash;the semifinals and finals. Some players leave their best for the big moments."</p>
<p>Despite recent struggles, Richards remains confident in Rohit&rsquo;s abilities. "Players go through rough patches, but it&rsquo;s about how they come out of them. If he finds his rhythm, India will be in a strong position."</p>

Cricket, Sports: Richards, a long-time admirer of Kohli's indomitable spirit and passion for the game, also hailed Virat for silencing critics through performances on the field

West Indies cricket legend Sir Vivian Richards lauded Virat Kohli’s relentless fighting spirit, energy, and passion, placing him among the game’s 'great' and 'legendary' players. Richards, a long-time admirer of Kohli’s competitive edge, praised the Indian batter for silencing critics with his performances on the field. "He answers all of us, really," Richards said during a virtual interaction as part of the International Master League's governing council. "Before the ODI World Cup, people questioned his form, but he came back magnificently. That’s the true testament of his character." Also Read: International Masters League: Once marred in drug controversy, former India spinner takes hat-trick | WATCH Emphasising what makes Kohli special, the legendary West Indian added, "Not every player can bounce back when they are down. His fighting spirit, his energy, and his passion to do well make him stand out." When asked about modern batters he admires, Richards singled out Kohli, saying he sees shades of himself in the Indian star. "Before, you had legends like Sachin Tendulkar, who has retired. But in the present era, it’s Virat Kohli. He reminds me of myself—fearless, always believing in himself, 120% confident. Whenever aggression is needed, he steps up." Richards also appreciated Kohli’s leadership qualities. "When you're a captain, you defend your team and represent your people. That’s what Virat does. I love that about him." 'Kohli can play till 50' Given Kohli’s dedication to fitness and his hunger for success, Richards believes the star batter has a long road ahead. "With the way he looks after himself and the passion he has, who knows? He could still be playing at 50! He recently scored a century against Pakistan in Dubai, proving he’s still at his best." When asked to compare Kohli with Tendulkar, Richards refused to engage in such debates. "I don’t believe in comparisons. Every great player has had their era, and fans have been fortunate to witness them. We should appreciate each player for their contribution rather than compare." Richards also urged patience with Indian skipper Rohit Sharma, who has had inconsistent form. "You have to give him time. He’s had ups and downs, but let’s see how he performs when it matters most—the semifinals and finals. Some players leave their best for the big moments." Despite recent struggles, Richards remains confident in Rohit’s abilities. "Players go through rough patches, but it’s about how they come out of them. If he finds his rhythm, India will be in a strong position."

'Virat Kohli's fighting spirit, energy and passion make him a great,' says former West Indies batting legend

<p>Glenn Phillips is a fantastic fielder, perhaps the best in this age and time (of cricket), and his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-glenn-phillips-stunning-one-handed-catch-sends-virat-kohli-packing-watch-8771030" rel="dofollow">blinder to remove Virat Kohli in Dubai</a> is just one example of it. Diving to his right in a microsecond to pluck a ball racing past him towards his right at a lightening speed was a testament to his athleticism and catching skills, leaving his teammates and batter Virat Kohli and his wife Anushka Sharma in utter disbelief.</p>
<p>While Kohli stood there as shocked as anyone watching the game live, his wife, sitting in the stands, held her head in disappointment.</p>
<p>After Kohli played the cut shot off seamer Matt Henry, the sound of the bat (it made) felt like the ball would rush towards the boundary, only for Phillips&rsquo; superhuman effort to stop it from doing so.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/inzamam-ul-haq-urges-other-boards-to-boycott-ipl-over-champions-trophy-venue-drama-8771038" rel="dofollow">Inzamam-ul-Haq urges other boards to boycott IPL over Champions Trophy venue drama</a></strong></p>
<p>Even those calling out the over at the time were amazed at how well Phillips had taken the catch in a fraction of second.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>Watch the catch and reaction-</h3>
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<h2>India&rsquo;s top-order fails</h2>
<p>India batted first in their last league match against New Zealand in Dubai, with the openers, captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma" rel="dofollow">Rohit Sharma</a> and his deputy <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shubman-gill" rel="dofollow">Shubman Gill,</a> failing to repeat their previous game&rsquo;s heroics. The duo departed early inside the Powerplay, when Rohit got out on 15 to seamer Kyle Jamison, while Henry accounted for Gill on just two.</p>
<p>Kohli, who scored a hundred in the previous tie against Pakistan, looked like his old self, scoring a couple of fours. He then decided to accelerate his innings, attempting to take on Henry. On the fifth ball of the seventh over, Kohli opened his arms, trying to smash a boundary on the offside, only for Phillips to grab it and stun the world.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The batting pair of Shreyas Iyer and Axar Patel steadied the ship, helping India cross the 100-run mark inside the 25th over.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Meanwhile, should India win this contest, they will take on Australia in the Champions Trophy semis in Dubai, but if New Zealand prevail, the Men in Blue will take on the Proteas.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Cricket, Sports: Phillips earlier removed Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan by grabbing a stunner similarly during the tournament's curtain raiser in Karachi.

Glenn Phillips is a fantastic fielder, perhaps the best in this age and time (of cricket), and his blinder to remove Virat Kohli in Dubai is just one example of it. Diving to his right in a microsecond to pluck a ball racing past him towards his right at a lightening speed was a testament to his athleticism and catching skills, leaving his teammates and batter Virat Kohli and his wife Anushka Sharma in utter disbelief. While Kohli stood there as shocked as anyone watching the game live, his wife, sitting in the stands, held her head in disappointment. After Kohli played the cut shot off seamer Matt Henry, the sound of the bat (it made) felt like the ball would rush towards the boundary, only for Phillips’ superhuman effort to stop it from doing so. Also read | Inzamam-ul-Haq urges other boards to boycott IPL over Champions Trophy venue drama Even those calling out the over at the time were amazed at how well Phillips had taken the catch in a fraction of second. Watch the catch and reaction- View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC Hindi (@icchindiofficial) India’s top-order fails India batted first in their last league match against New Zealand in Dubai, with the openers, captain Rohit Sharma and his deputy Shubman Gill, failing to repeat their previous game’s heroics. The duo departed early inside the Powerplay, when Rohit got out on 15 to seamer Kyle Jamison, while Henry accounted for Gill on just two. Kohli, who scored a hundred in the previous tie against Pakistan, looked like his old self, scoring a couple of fours. He then decided to accelerate his innings, attempting to take on Henry. On the fifth ball of the seventh over, Kohli opened his arms, trying to smash a boundary on the offside, only for Phillips to grab it and stun the world. The batting pair of Shreyas Iyer and Axar Patel steadied the ship, helping India cross the 100-run mark inside the 25th over. Meanwhile, should India win this contest, they will take on Australia in the Champions Trophy semis in Dubai, but if New Zealand prevail, the Men in Blue will take on the Proteas. (With inputs from agencies)

Glenn Phillips’ catch reaction: Kohli stunned, Anushka holds head in disbelief – Watch

<p>New Zealand&rsquo;s Glenn Phillips produced a jaw-dropping moment in the ongoing ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> 2025 as he took an incredible one-handed catch to dismiss Indian batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a> for just 11 runs. The much-anticipated Group A match between India and New Zealand at the Dubai International Stadium witnessed high-intensity action, with Kohli&rsquo;s dismissal proving to be a turning point.</p>
<p>Seeing width on the delivery, Kohli went for a cut shot, and the ball went to the right of Phillips at point. With just 0.62 seconds to react to it, Phillips dove to his right and completed the catch with his outstretched hand.&nbsp;<span>Virat Kohli stood there in disbelief while <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/anushka-sharma">Anushka Sharma</a> was seen nodding her head in disbelief. </span></p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/karun-nair-closes-domestic-season-with-another-century-as-vidarbha-wins-third-ranji-trophy-title-8771032">Karun Nair closes domestic season with another century as Vidarbha wins third Ranji Trophy title</a></strong></p>
<h2>Another milestone for Kohli</h2>
<p>Kohli, playing his milestone 300th ODI, was expected to deliver a strong performance, but his innings was cut short by Phillips&rsquo; brilliance in the field. The New Zealand all-rounder who can also keep wickets is known for his sharp reflexes and has already made a name for himself with stunning catches throughout the tournament, and this spectacular effort further solidified his reputation as one of the finest fielders in world cricket today.</p>
<p><strong>Watch the video here:</strong></p>
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<p data-start="1135" data-end="1546"><span>The Indian team, asked to bat first, found itself in a spot of bother. Matt Henry&rsquo;s two wickets, along with Kyle Jamieson&rsquo;s early blow, put the Men in Blue in a precarious position, as India lost their top-order early into their innings.</span></p>
<p>In 300 ODIs, Virat Kohli has scored 14,096 runs at an average of 58.01 and a strike rate of 93.40, with 51 centuries and 73 fifties, boasting a best score of 183. Having already overtaken Ponting on the all-time run charts, Kohli is now just 138 runs away from second-placed Kumar Sangakkara. However, he remains 4,330 runs behind Sachin Tendulkar, who still tops the list.</p>
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Cricket, Sports: Phillips has been one of the best fielders in the tournament, having taken a similar catch during their game vs Pakistan to remove the captain, Mohammad Rizwan

New Zealand’s Glenn Phillips produced a jaw-dropping moment in the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025 as he took an incredible one-handed catch to dismiss Indian batter Virat Kohli for just 11 runs. The much-anticipated Group A match between India and New Zealand at the Dubai International Stadium witnessed high-intensity action, with Kohli’s dismissal proving to be a turning point. Seeing width on the delivery, Kohli went for a cut shot, and the ball went to the right of Phillips at point. With just 0.62 seconds to react to it, Phillips dove to his right and completed the catch with his outstretched hand. Virat Kohli stood there in disbelief while Anushka Sharma was seen nodding her head in disbelief. Also Read: Karun Nair closes domestic season with another century as Vidarbha wins third Ranji Trophy title Another milestone for Kohli Kohli, playing his milestone 300th ODI, was expected to deliver a strong performance, but his innings was cut short by Phillips’ brilliance in the field. The New Zealand all-rounder who can also keep wickets is known for his sharp reflexes and has already made a name for himself with stunning catches throughout the tournament, and this spectacular effort further solidified his reputation as one of the finest fielders in world cricket today. Watch the video here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) The Indian team, asked to bat first, found itself in a spot of bother. Matt Henry’s two wickets, along with Kyle Jamieson’s early blow, put the Men in Blue in a precarious position, as India lost their top-order early into their innings. In 300 ODIs, Virat Kohli has scored 14,096 runs at an average of 58.01 and a strike rate of 93.40, with 51 centuries and 73 fifties, boasting a best score of 183. Having already overtaken Ponting on the all-time run charts, Kohli is now just 138 runs away from second-placed Kumar Sangakkara. However, he remains 4,330 runs behind Sachin Tendulkar, who still tops the list.

Champions Trophy 2025: Glenn Phillips’ stunning one-handed catch sends Virat Kohli packing - WATCH

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