Bad news for India as star player ruled out ahead of Champions Trophy final

New Delhi: In a recent development, Indian cricket sensation Virat Kohli is reported to have suffered an injury during a practice session on Friday, just days before the highly anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final against New Zealand on March 9. According to reports from Pakistan's Geo News, Kohli injured his ankle after being struck by a ball near his knee, which prompted him to immediately stop his training. The Indian team's medical staff acted promptly, treating the injury by applying a spray and wrapping the affected area with a bandage.

Management gives update on Virat Kohli:
Despite the concern, the team management reassured that Kohli’s injury is not severe and he is expected to be ready for the final. Following the incident, Kohli remained on the field and observed the rest of the team’s training. Kohli has been a vital player for India throughout this tournament and will play a pivotal role in the final, scheduled for Sunday in Dubai.

Virat Kohli’s performance in Champions Trophy 2025:
The star batsman has been in superb form throughout the ongoing Champions Trophy 2025. In four matches, he has accumulated 217 runs, boasting an impressive average of 72.33 and a strike rate of 83.14. Kohli has been consistently performing, with a century against Pakistan and a match-winning 84 against Australia. He is India’s top scorer and the fourth-highest run-getter in the tournament.

The India vs New Zealand final is expected to be a thrilling contest. India remains unbeaten in the tournament, while New Zealand has only lost once – to India in the group stage. This marks India’s third consecutive ICC tournament final, following the 2023 ODI World Cup and the 2024 T20 World Cup finals.