History will be rewritten today. Team India, who won their last 50-over ICC tournament back in 2013, is ready to dominate again as they take on New Zealand at the ICC Champions Trophy final in Dubai. A lot is at stake. India have been flawless in their campaign but the Kiwis are known for having a set plan and have played proper cricket to reach the ultimate clash. But is Virat Kohli injured for the final? Or will Rohit Sharma retire if irrespective of the outcome of the game? A lot to catch up and you will only get the answer once we witness all the action on March 9. Apart from this, there is a massive injury scare in the Mumbai Indians (MI) camp. Catch all this and more as we skim through the best stories from Saturday, March 8.
Bad news for Mumbai Indians, no Bumrah?
Jasprit Bumrah will likely miss the first two weeks of IPL 2025, dealing a massive blow to the Mumbai Indians. The veteran pacer is recovering from a back injury and won’t join the MI camp until April. Bumrah, who’s currently undergoing rehab, hasn’t started bowling in full tilt yet. The medical team will gradually increase his workload before clearing him to play. This means Bumrah will miss at least three of MI’s initial games, including their first home game against KKR. Read more here: Blow for MI! Jasprit Bumrah likely to miss first two weeks of IPL 2025
Virat Kohli injured before final?
Virat Kohli suffered a scare during India’s practice session before the ICC Champions Trophy Final against New Zealand. He was hit on the leg by a pacer and experienced pain, forcing him to stop his practice. However, the Indian coaching staff claims that Kohli’s injury isn’t severe and he should be fit for the final. Losing Kohli would be a massive blow, as he’s been India’s top scorer in the tournament. Read more here: Virat Kohli suffers injury scare before Champions Trophy Final
Rohit Sharma to retire in Dubai?
Rohit Sharma may retire from ODI cricket after the ICC Champions Trophy, regardless of the outcome. The Indian captain, who has already retired from T20Is, will reportedly discuss his future with selectors after the tournament. With only 9 ODIs remaining in 2025, it may be the perfect time for Rohit to hang up his boots, especially if he wins the Champions Trophy. At 37, his body may not hold up until the 2027 ODI World Cup. Read more here: Rohit Sharma ODI retirement could be the only ‘confirmed’ outcome of ICC Champions Trophy Final
Latest on Cricket
- Is India vs Pakistan battle dipping in popularity? Google data suggests so
- ‘Can’t bowl 20 overs of spin’ – India coach confirms Washington Sundar picked as batting all-rounder
- No Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma in the most googled players for 2025
Mohammad Amir in IPL 2026?
Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir is hopeful of securing an IPL contract in 2026. As a UK citizen, Amir is exploring the possibility of obtaining a UK passport, which would make him eligible to play in the IPL. He’s expressed his desire to play for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and has praised Virat Kohli, who had gifted him a bat. Amir believes his entry could change RCB’s fortunes, and fellow Pakistani cricketer Ahmed Shehzad agreed. Read more here: Mohammad Amir eyes entry into IPL in 2026, wants to play for RCB
Rizwan under scanner
Pakistan cricket captain Mohammad Rizwan is under scrutiny for his comments after the team’s loss to India in the Champions Trophy. According to reports, Rizwan told his teammates that the selectors and coaches would lose their jobs, not the players. A player reportedly informed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) about the captain’s comments, which were deemed unacceptable. The PCB is now investigating the matter, which could lead to consequences for Rizwan. Read more here: After losing to India, Rizwan told team “coaches & selectors would lose jobs”
Good gesture by Rajasthan Royals
Rajasthan Royals unveiled a stunning all-pink jersey to mark International Women’s Day, which they’ll wear during their “Pink Promise Match” against Mumbai Indians on May 1st. The jersey represents the team’s commitment to empowering women and driving change in Rajasthan. The Royal Rajasthan Foundation’s #PinkPromise campaign aims to make a lasting impact, and last year’s initiative brought light to over 250 homes. Director of Cricket Kumar Sangakkara emphasized that “Pink Promise” is a cultural commitment that shapes the team’s values. Read more here: Rajasthan Royals launch ‘Pink Promise’ jersey on International Women’s Day
