India took on New Zealand in the much-awaited ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final on Sunday at Dubai. New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner won the toss and decided to bat first, India’s 15th straight ODI toss loss and the 12th under captain Rohit Sharma. Despite this disadvantage, bowlers from India played a great game, restricting New Zealand to 251/7 in 50 overs.
Spinners Varun Chakaravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav were among the top performers, each grabbing two wickets. New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell hit a vital knock for his side with 63 runs, but India’s tight bowling unit did not allow the Kiwis to post an unbeatable score.
Presence of Yuzvendra Chahal Spreads Hype During Divorce Hearings
While the action on the field had the fans on tenterhooks, another talking point of the final was Indian spinner Yuzvendra Chahal’s appearance in the stands. Chahal was seen with a woman, and this sparked huge debate on social media.
Chahal watching Champions Trophy final in Dubai. pic.twitter.com/yWz2O4qFqu
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) March 9, 2025
His public sighting takes place during his ongoing divorce matter with wife Dhanashree Verma. Rumors surrounding their split were swirling for months, but information about their judicial proceedings came forward a week ago. The latest was that the couple’s final hearing had happened at the Bandra Family Court, where the two appeared personally.
New girlfriend or what ?
— ᴄʜɪʜᴀʏᴀ♡̷̷ˎˊ (@Oye_Chihaya) March 9, 2025
But the lawyer of Dhanashree, Aditi Mohan, rejected some claims by the media, pointing out that the process was still being followed in a court of law. “I have no comments to make on the proceedings, the matter is currently sub judice. The media should fact-check before reporting, as a lot of misleading information is being circulated,” Mohan said.
Family Dismisses Rs 60 Crore Alimony Claims
With increasing speculation, reports began circulating that Dhanashree had asked for Rs 60 crore in alimony. Her family, however, vehemently denied such claims, asking the media to stop spreading misinformation.
“We are deeply outraged by the baseless claims being circulated about the alimony figure. Let me be absolutely clear-no such amount has ever been asked, demanded, or even offered. There is no truth to these rumors whatsoever. It is deeply irresponsible to publish such unverified information, dragging not just the parties but also their families into unnecessary speculation. Reckless reporting like this only causes harm, and we urge the media to exercise restraint and fact-check before spreading misinformation and also be respectful towards everyone’s privacy,” the statement stated.
Chahal to Represent Punjab Kings in IPL 2025
On the professional front, Yuzvendra Chahal will be representing Punjab Kings in IPL 2025. He was bought by PBKS for a whopping Rs 18 crore at the mega auction held last December.
As the Champions Trophy final takes place, fans are eagerly waiting to see if India is able to chase down New Zealand’s score and lift the coveted title.
