The countdown for the ICC Champions Trophy Final has begun. However, we are getting all kinds of reports relating to it and what might proceed afterwards. As per reports, we might see Rohit Sharma’s future up in the air following the India vs New Zealand summit clash on March 9, Sunday. Apart from this, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is ready to roll out central contract after the event, with Shreyas Iyer likely to get his deserving contract once again. Apart from this, there was a massive update on the pitch for the Champions Trophy final. Catch all this and more as we look through the top six stories of Friday, March 7.
Shreyas Iyer back in Central Contract?
Shreyas Iyer is likely to make a comeback to the BCCI Central Contract list after being snubbed last year due to disciplinary reasons. Iyer had ignored the board’s directive to play domestic cricket, but his consistent performances for Mumbai and India have seemingly paved the way for his return. With the BCCI set to announce the central contracts after the Champions Trophy, Iyer’s stupendous form will earn him a spot in the coveted list once again. Read more here.
Rohit Sharma gone after ICC Champions Trophy?
Rohit Sharma’s captaincy future hangs in the balance, with the outcome of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final against New Zealand set to determine his fate. At 37, Rohit’s been asked to consider his limited-overs future, and the BCCI is keen on planning ahead for the 2027 ODI World Cup. Tough discussions may be held on moving on from Rohit as captain, with Shubman Gill already being groomed as his potential successor. Read more here.
Massive Dubai Pitch Update
The ICC Champions Trophy Final between India and New Zealand will be played on the same Dubai pitch that hosted the India-Pakistan group stage match. The pitch, which was last used on February 23, is expected to favor spinners, who claimed seven wickets at an average of 30 in the previous match. The surface is slow and sluggish, making it challenging for batters to score freely. Pacers may struggle to make an impact, setting the stage for a spin-dominated contest. Read more here.
Latest on Cricket
- IND vs SA 3rd ODI: Pitch, weather report, squads and all you need to know
- Will Gambhir try Rishabh Pant or Nitish Reddy in IND vs SA 3rd ODI with series on the line?
- RR captaincy decision after IPL 2026 auction, confirms Riyan Parag
Boost for India at Champions Trophy Final?
New Zealand’s Matt Henry is doubtful for the Champions Trophy final against India due to a shoulder injury. Henry suffered the injury during the semi-final against South Africa and is still experiencing soreness. Although he has resumed bowling in the nets, his availability for the final remains uncertain. New Zealand coach Gary Stead said Henry will be given every chance to play, but a final decision has yet to be made. This could be a massive boost for India. Read more here.
BCCI to ACC, Rajeev Shukla
The BCCI has announced that vice-president Rajeev Shukla will represent the board as an Executive Board Member on the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) Board. This move comes after Jay Shah vacated his position on the ACC Board to take over as the ICC Chair. Ashish Shelar will also join the ACC Board as the BCCI’s Ex-Officio Board Member. Read more here.
Demotion for Rohit, Kohli & Jadeja?
Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja are at risk of being demoted from the A+ category of the BCCI’s central contract. The reason? The trio has retired from T20Is and had a sub-par Test season. As per the BCCI’s policy, players who perform in all three formats are preferred for the top contract. However, their performances in the Champions Trophy could save them from demotion. A strong showing could help them retain their A+ contracts. Read more here.
Editor's Pick
Cricket
Will Gambhir try Rishabh Pant or Nitish Reddy in IND vs SA 3rd ODI with series on the line?
Top Stories
