Reports: Virat Kohli suffers injury scare ahead of Champions Trophy final against New Zealand

Virat Kohli, the ace Indian batter, received a minor injury during a practice session on Friday, just days before the final clash against New Zealand in the Champions Trophy on Sunday, March 9, in Dubai. Kohli was struck near his knee while facing a fast bowler in the nets, forcing him to pause his training session for a while.

Speedily, the Indian physios attended to him, wrapping the injured area with a bandage. Regardless of feeling a little trouble, Kohli chose to stay on the field, observed the rest of the session. Later in the day, the Indian coaching and physio staff confirmed that the injury was not serious and that Kohli is fit to play the highly anticipated final clash, the reports stated.

India faces a daunting threat against a volatile and strong New Zealand side, which has historically dominated them in ICC events. The Black Caps lead India 10-6 in overall ICC tournament encounters and hold a 3-1 edge in knockout matches. This recurrent trend has been and can be a cause for concern for the Men in Blue.

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Meantime, critics have come up with accusations saying that India has been enjoying an unfair advantage due to their extended stay in Dubai. Nevertheless, some others have argued that New Zealand have also had ample time to familiarize themselves with the conditions. However, India may still feel a greater sense of comfort heading into the decider. 

Tactically, India is likely to keep their four-spinner, two-pacer combination for the final. As the match is going to be played on the same pitch used for their high-voltage encounter against Pakistan, India’s spin attack could trouble the Kiwis specifically. 

However, New Zealand’s spinners have previously dismantled India, notably during a Test series in 2024. The BlackCaps, still chasing their first ICC ODI title in 25 years, will be eager for a repeat performance. 

India, on the other hand, will be determined to end that narrative and add another ICC trophy to their cabinet after their 2024 T20 World Cup triumph.