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.

Cricketer-turned-analyst Aakash Chopra speculates on the ODI future of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, questioning whether they will retire after the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra highlighted that if the duo steps away from ODIs, their international commitments may be reduced to just Test cricket. With India’s next ODI World Cup scheduled for 2027, he believes their decision hinges on fitness and team dynamics. Chopra also emphasized their importance in the 2025 Champions Trophy, suggesting they might reassess their careers post-tournament. While no official statement has been made, the debate continues over their longevity in limited-overs cricket.

Australia's Steve Smith announced his retirement from ODIs, drawing praise from cricketing legends. Yuvraj Singh said, "You and your family should be proud of all you achieved." David Warner called him "the best player I've played alongside," while Shane Watson recalled Smith's heroics in the 2015 World Cup. Smith, 35, will continue playing Tests and T20Is, eyeing the 2026 T20 World Cup and 2028 Olympics. His ODI career saw 5,367 runs in 155 matches, making him one of Australia's greats. Tributes poured in for "Smudge" from fans and teammates worldwide.

Navjot Singh Sidhu praised KL Rahul’s adaptability after India’s 4-wicket win over Australia in the Champions Trophy semi-final. Rahul, who played a crucial 42* off 34 balls, has frequently switched roles in the Indian team. "Even the spare tyre is not used as much," Sidhu quipped on Star Sports, highlighting Rahul’s contributions across formats. The wicketkeeper-batter hit the winning runs, ensuring India’s final berth against New Zealand on March 9 in Dubai. His flexibility remains key as India eyes another ICC title.

Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has announced that she is expecting her first child with husband Somvir Rathee. She shared the news on Instagram on March 6, writing, "A new chapter in our story," alongside a picture with her husband. Vinesh retired from wrestling after the Paris Olympics 2024 but recently hinted at a comeback. Fellow wrestlers Bajrang Punia and Sakshee Malik congratulated her. Since retiring, Vinesh has also entered politics, winning the Julana seat in the Haryana Assembly elections. Fans and well-wishers continue to celebrate this new phase in her life.

Indian cricketer Mohammed Shami faced criticism from cleric Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi for not fasting during India's Champions Trophy semi-final against Australia, calling it a "sin" and a "crime." However, Maulana Khalid Rashid of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board defended Shami, citing Islamic exemptions for travelers. Shami’s family and coach also backed him, urging focus on the final. Politician Rohit Pawar condemned linking religion to sports. Shami led India's bowling attack, taking 3 wickets as India won by 4 wickets. His family called the controversy "shameful."

South Africa’s David Miller criticized the ICC over the Champions Trophy scheduling after his team’s exhausting travel to Dubai before their semifinal loss to New Zealand in Lahore. Due to India’s refusal to play in Pakistan, the ICC scheduled all their matches in Dubai, forcing South Africa and Australia to fly unnecessarily. “It wasn’t ideal,” Miller said. Despite his unbeaten 100 off 67 balls, South Africa fell 50 runs short in their chase of 363. Miller backed New Zealand to beat India in Sunday’s final in Dubai, calling it a “great” contest and admitting, “I think I'll be supporting New Zealand.”

Virat Kohli and Steve Smith shared an emotional moment after India defeated Australia by 4 wickets in the Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final in Dubai. Smith, who scored 73 runs, announced his retirement from ODIs after the match. A viral video captured Kohli asking Smith if it was his last ODI, and upon hearing "Yes," he embraced him warmly. Smith, a two-time World Cup winner, retires with 5,800 ODI runs. India will face New Zealand in the final on March 9. Smith reaffirmed his commitment to Test cricket, with the World Test Championship final against South Africa ahead.

India pacer Mohammed Shami acknowledged that playing all matches in Dubai has “definitely helped” the team in the Champions Trophy. Critics claim India benefited from familiar conditions and no travel, while other teams played across multiple Pakistan venues. “We know the pitch and its behavior well,” Shami said after India’s semifinal win over Australia. However, coach Gautam Gambhir dismissed the allegations, calling them baseless. India remains unbeaten, with Shami leading the wicket charts with 8 scalps. The final will also be held in Dubai under the Hybrid Model.