India National Cricket Team vs New Zealand National Cricket Team: Just a day before the much-anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final, Indian cricket fans held their breath as Virat Kohli suffered an injury scare during a practice session in Dubai. According to reports from Pakistan’s Geo News, Kohli hurt his ankle after being struck by a ball, forcing him to pause his training.
However, the Indian medical team acted swiftly, treating him with spray and bandaging the injured area. Despite the setback, team management assured that Kohli’s injury is not serious, and he will be fit to play in the IND vs NZ final on March 9. The Indian star batter remained on the field after treatment, closely watching his teammates as they continued their practice session.
Virat Kohli’s Performance in ICC Champions Trophy 2025
Kohli has been in sublime form throughout the Champions Trophy 2025, making him a key asset for India in the upcoming final. The veteran batsman has scored 217 runs in four innings, maintaining an impressive average of 72.33 and a strike rate of 83.14. His standout performances include a century against Pakistan and a match-winning 84 against Australia in the semifinals. Kohli is currently India’s leading run-scorer in the tournament and fourth-highest overall.
IND vs NZ Final: A Rematch After 25 Years
India and New Zealand will lock horns in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday, March 9. This final brings back memories of the 2000 Champions Trophy (then called the ICC Knockout Trophy) when New Zealand defeated India to claim their first ICC title.
India enters the match as narrow favorites, given their dominant performances at this venue. The Men in Blue have been exceptional in chasing targets at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, winning three of their last four matches. Players like Shreyas Iyer and Virat Kohli have been instrumental in these victories.
In their previous encounter in the tournament, India defeated New Zealand by defending a target, thanks to a five-wicket haul by Varun Chakravarthy. With both teams boasting world-class talent, the final promises to be a thrilling contest.
India’s Possible Playing XI for the Final: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (WK), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patelm Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy
New Zealand’s Possible Playing XI for the Final: Will Young, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (WK/C), Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Will O’Rourke
