March 8, 2025: Ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final between India and New Zealand in Dubai, Virat Kohli’s childhood coach, Raj Kumar Sharma, expressed strong confidence in India’s chances of emerging as champions. Sharma, who has been a key figure in Kohli’s development since his early days, spoke about India’s current form and their prospects in the final.
India has been in stellar form throughout the tournament, remaining undefeated so far, with all players contributing significantly to the team’s success. Sharma expressed optimism, saying, “It is a big match. The way India is playing in this tournament, I hope they will perform and win the final match. So far, India has won all the matches, and everyone is contributing. They are playing like a good team, so I am very confident that the team will win the title.”
Sharma specifically highlighted the role of Virat Kohli in India’s journey to the final. Kohli, known for his run-chasing ability and consistency, has been in excellent form, with his standout knock of 84 runs in 98 balls in the semi-finals against Australia securing India’s spot in the final. His performance was instrumental in taking India past Australia, and Sharma believes that if Kohli maintains his current form, India will have a strong chance of winning the title.
“I am really hopeful that Virat Kohli will continue his form and the way he is playing. If he continues to play like this, then India will definitely win this game,” Sharma added.
Kohli’s knock against Australia in the semi-finals showcased his sublime batting skills, with five boundaries and a string of well-placed singles and doubles. His performance earned him the ‘Player of the Match’ award and helped India inch closer to their first ICC Champions Trophy title since 2013.
As India gears up for the final against New Zealand, Sharma’s confidence and Kohli’s rich vein of form have raised expectations for what promises to be an exciting and highly competitive match on March 9 at the Dubai International Stadium.