Virat Kohli and high-pressure chases are usually a perfect match, but this time, the story took an unexpected twist. In the Champions Trophy 2025 final against New Zealand, India’s chase suffered a setback as their talismanic batter walked back for just 1 off 2 balls, leaving the Dubai crowd stunned.
India seemed to be in control after a solid 105-run opening stand between Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill. With Kohli at the crease, fans anticipated another masterclass in finishing. However, cricket has a way of scripting its own drama.
Shubman Gill’s dismissal—courtesy of a breathtaking catch by Glenn Phillips—brought Kohli to the middle, and expectations soared. But Michael Bracewell had other plans. The off-spinner floated one up, drifting in towards the stumps. Kohli, looking to tuck it away, misjudged the turn, and the ball crashed into his pads. The appeal was immediate, the umpire’s finger went up, and a desperate DRS review only confirmed the inevitable—plumb in front.
WATCH – Glenn Phillips’ Flying Catch Stuns Shubman Gill In Champions Trophy 2025 Final
As soon as Virat Kohli departed, social media erupted. Some fans backed their icon, recalling his past heroics, while others, as always, wasted no time in questioning his place in the team.
Virat Kohli brother, This is from a younger brother, Just retire #ChampionsTrophy2025
— Bishal Bhattarai (@Bishal__bh) March 9, 2025
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli should announce their retirement from ODI .
— Ritesh Jaiswal (@DeviTara_bhakt) March 9, 2025
Please take Retirement @imVkohli pic.twitter.com/etY0PNRxRm
— CSK Fans Army™ (@CSKFansArmy) March 9, 2025
Now people will understand the importance of Virat Kohli. If he was there at the pitch, there wouldn’t be as many dot balls as there are now, as he will take singles constantly.#INDvsNZ
— Siddhant Kandi (@siddhant_kandi) March 9, 2025
Exactly 💯
Virat Kohli already has enough performances(including kos) to be called one of the greatest of this format…!! https://t.co/GWofjr6RlU— Randeep¹⁸ (@Randeep621) March 9, 2025
Whenever India needs actually needs Virat Kohli in ODI CHASE he chokes. He failed 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2025. #ChampionsTrophy2025 #INDvsNZ
— Dev (@ZenithDev07) March 9, 2025
Seeing the MRF bat in Shubman Gill’s hands, I have a feeling that Virat Kohli might be preparing to retire from ODIs.#INDvsNZ #ViratKohli𓃵 #ChampionsTrophy2025
— VelvetReverie (@Mda5if) March 9, 2025
India’s chase, which had started on a strong note, hit a rocky patch. Rohit Sharma, after a brilliant 76, was stumped off Rachin Ravindra, leaving India at 122/3 after 26.1 overs.
WATCH – Rohit Sharma Sets the Tone With A Stunning Six in India’s Champions Trophy Final Chase
With 130 runs needed off 143 balls, the match remains delicately poised. India still holds the advantage with a deep batting lineup, but with Kohli gone early, the middle order must step up under pressure. The Kiwis, sensing an opportunity, are tightening their grip, making this final a thrilling contest.
