Days before the Champions Trophy final match against New Zealand on Sunday, March 9, in Dubai, India’s top batsman, Virat Kohli, suffered a slight injury during a practice session on Friday. When facing a fast bowler in the nets, Kohli was hit close to his knee, which caused him to temporarily stop his workout.
The Indian physiotherapists treated him quickly, bandaging the wounded area. Despite experiencing some discomfort, Kohli decided to remain on the pitch and watched the remainder of the match.
According to the sources, the Indian coaching and physiotherapy staff later certified that Virat Kohli is fit to participate in the much awaited final match and that the injury was not significant.
India is up against a formidable and unpredictable New Zealand team that has dominated them in past ICC competitions. The Black Caps have a 3-1 advantage in knockout games and a 10-6 record overall against India in ICC tournament matchups. For the Men in Blue, this repeated pattern has been and may continue to be a source of worry.
In the meantime, detractors have levelled charges alleging that India has been unfairly privileged as a result of their prolonged presence in Dubai. Others, however, contend that New Zealand has had enough time to become acquainted with the circumstances. India, though, might still feel more at ease going into the final.
India is probably going to stick with their four-spinner, two-pacer lineup for the championship match. India’s spin arsenal could pose a particular threat to the Kiwis because the match will take place on the same ground as their intense contest against Pakistan.
But New Zealand’s spinners have already destroyed India, most memorably in a 2024 Test series. The BlackCaps will be hoping for a repeat performance as they continue to pursue their first ICC ODI championship in 25 years.
However, following their victory in the 2024 T20 World Cup, India would be keen to put an end to that narrative and add another ICC trophy to their cabinet.
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