Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir | March 9, 2025 – As the clock ticks down to the highly final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 between India and New Zealand, fans across the nation are buzzing with excitement—and nowhere is the fervour more palpable than in Srinagar. With the match set to unfold today at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, supporters of the Men in Blue are rallying behind their team, hoping for a triumphant end to an unbeaten campaign.
One passionate Indian team fan in Srinagar encapsulated the collective sentiment, saying, “We are Indians, so we obviously want India to win. I hope Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma open the match well and both hit centuries.” The fan’s optimism reflects the high expectations pinned on India’s dynamic opening pair, captain Rohit Sharma and vice-captain Shubman Gill, who have been in scintillating form throughout the tournament.
India, led by the seasoned Rohit Sharma, has dominated the competition so far, securing victories over Bangladesh, Pakistan, New Zealand , and Australia in the semifinal. Now, they face a formidable New Zealand side, captained by Mitchell Santner, in a rematch that promises to be a thrilling contest. For many, a win today would not only clinch India’s third Champions Trophy title but also serve as redemption for past ICC final heartbreaks against the Black Caps, including the 2019 World Cup semifinal and the 2021 World Test Championship final.
In Srinagar, the streets are alive with anticipation. Local cricket enthusiasts gathered to share their predictions, with many echoing the hope that Gill and Sharma will provide a solid foundation
Adding intrigue to the buildup, speculation continues to swirl around Rohit Sharma’s future in ODI cricket. While Shubman Gill dismissed retirement talks in a pre-match press conference, stating, “There’s no discussion about it in the dressing room,” some believe a victory today could mark a fitting crescendo to the 37-year-old skipper’s illustrious career. Gill, meanwhile, emphasized the team’s focus: “We’re just thinking about winning the Champions Trophy.”
As the teams prepare to take the field, all eyes will be on Dubai—and from the valleys of Jammu & Kashmir to every corner of India, fans are united in their chant: “Come on, India!” Whether Gill and Sharma deliver the centuries fans are dreaming of remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—the nation is ready to roar.