The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final between India and New Zealand is scheduled in Dubai, with a reserve day allocated to ensure a result. If play is interrupted on the scheduled day, the match will continue from the same point on the reserve day. For a result to be declared, each team must bat for a minimum of 25 overs. If this requirement isn't met over both days, the teams will share the trophy. Historically, India experienced a similar situation in the 2002 Champions Trophy final, sharing the title with Sri Lanka after rain washed out play on both the scheduled and reserve days.

Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has analyzed the upcoming 2025 Champions Trophy final between India and New Zealand, highlighting the pivotal role of the middle-order batsmen. Chopra emphasized the significance of India's Shreyas Iyer and New Zealand's Daryl Mitchell, noting both players' propensity to perform against their respective opponents. He remarked, "He always scores runs against us," referring to Mitchell's consistent performances against India, and similarly acknowledged Iyer's success against New Zealand. Chopra also drew parallels between the wicketkeeper-batsmen of both teams, observing that KL Rahul and Tom Latham are evenly matched, with Latham regaining form during the tournament. This analysis suggests that the middle-order battle could be a decisive factor in the final outcome.

Indian captain Rohit Sharma has dismissed retirement speculation ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, reaffirming his commitment to ODIs and Tests. Sharma, who retired from T20Is after India's 2024 World Cup win, expressed frustration over ongoing rumors. Meanwhile, former cricketer Ajit Agarkar has been appointed as the BCCI’s chief selector, a move expected to impact future team selections. With Agarkar at the helm and India gearing up for the Champions Trophy, all eyes are on Sharma’s leadership and India’s squad dynamics as they prepare for the tournament. Fans eagerly await how these changes will shape India's cricketing future.

In the lead-up to the ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025 final between India and New Zealand, former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin suggested that India should not focus on winning the toss. Ashwin noted that India has demonstrated proficiency in both defending and chasing targets during the tournament, making the toss less critical. He stated, "In my opinion, India shouldn't aim to win the toss. I'd say let them lose it, allowing New Zealand to choose what they want to do." Ashwin also highlighted the intriguing matchup between New Zealand's Kane Williamson and India's Ravindra Jadeja, emphasizing that this contest could significantly influence the final's outcome.

Virat Kohli, India's star batter, suffered an injury during practice ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy final against New Zealand on March 9, 2025, at Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Kohli was hit near his knee while facing a pacer in the nets. Indian physio staff attended to the 36-year-old, applying spray and bandaging the injury. Despite the blow, Kohli reassured the team by staying on the ground and watching others practice. The coach confirmed that the injury was minor, and Kohli is expected to be fit for the crucial final.

A report suggests Rohit Sharma might retire from ODIs if India lose the Champions Trophy 2025 final against New Zealand. However, if India win, he may continue playing but step down as captain, with Hardik Pandya or Shubman Gill likely to succeed him. Rohit, 38, has already retired from T20Is. Cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar urged Rohit to play longer innings, saying, “If he bats for 25 overs, India could score 350+.” India’s next test series is in June against England, while their next major ODI event is the 2027 World Cup.

    In the 1990s, Barauni, a village in Bihar notorious for crime and fear, became a beacon of change as girls defied societal norms to play football. Despite facing threats, taunts, and opposition from families, these girls, led by coach Sanjeev Kumar Singh, practiced tirelessly at a local ground. Today, Barauni, now known as "Khel Gaon," celebrates its daughters who have achieved national and international success, earning government jobs and transforming the village's identity. These girls' courage serves as an inspiration for future generations, proving how determination can overcome adversity.    

Former Australia captain Michael Clarke has lauded Virat Kohli as the best one-day international (ODI) player he has ever seen, emphasizing the importance of dismissing him early to stand a chance against India. Reflecting on Australia's semifinal loss to India in the 2025 Champions Trophy, Clarke noted that failing to capitalize on early opportunities, including a dropped catch when Kohli was on 50, cost them dearly. Kohli went on to score a match-winning 84 runs, leading India to victory. Clarke stressed that allowing India to bat their full 50 overs virtually ensures their success, especially with Kohli's prowess in chasing targets. He also praised India's aggressive approach throughout the tournament, attributing it to Kohli's leadership.

India's dominance in the 2025 Champions Trophy has stirred controversy, particularly regarding the decision to play all its matches in Dubai instead of the original venue in Pakistan. Critics argue that this gives India an unfair advantage, citing the financial influence of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in shaping global cricket decisions. The hybrid format of the tournament, which marks Pakistan's return as a host, has fueled debates about India’s growing influence on the sport. Despite these controversies, India and New Zealand will face off in the final on March 9.  

Congress spokesperson Shama Mohamed has come to the defense of Indian cricketer Mohammed Shami, who skipped his fast during the semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 against New Zealand. The controversy erupted after Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi, President of All India Muslim Jamaat, called Shami a "criminal" for not observing his Roza while traveling. Mohamed, addressing the issue, stated that Muslims are permitted to skip fasting while traveling.