Rohit Sharma vows to clinch Champions Trophy in Dubai
Indian captain promises to bring the coveted trophy to Wankhede Stadium
Dubai: The Indian cricket team has endured a challenging few months, with setbacks across formats casting a shadow over their campaign. But skipper Rohit Sharma is determined to turn the tide.
Addressing a jubilant crowd at Mumbai’s iconic Wankhede Stadium during its 50th anniversary celebration, Rohit made a bold promise: to bring the ICC Champions Trophy back to the hallowed venue in 2025.
The Champions Trophy, currently on its Trophy Tour across participating nations, was ceremoniously displayed at the Wankhede as part of the festivities. Rohit shared the stage with Mumbai legends Sunil Gavaskar, Dilip Vengsarkar, Ravi Shastri, Sachin Tendulkar, Diana Edulji, and Ajinkya Rahane — players who have captained India in various formats of cricket.
A promise fuelled by passion
“I am sure when we reach Dubai, the wishes of 140 crore [1.4 billion] people will be with us. We will try to win it and bring the ICC Champions Trophy back here to the Wankhede,” Rohit declared to thunderous applause.
Reflecting on his emotional connection to the stadium, Rohit added: “It was my dream to play cricket here at Wankhede since I was a kid. Irrespective of who plays here — India, Mumbai, or Mumbai Indians — the crowd never disappoints. That’s why playing here feels so special.”
Rohit also recalled the celebrations following India’s T20 World Cup triumph in 2024. The team went on a bus parade with thousands lining up the streets of Mumbai, bringing the vibrant city to a standstill. “Winning the World Cup and celebrating it with your people is a different feeling. When we celebrated here, the stands were full. Even today, it’s full — that’s what makes Wankhede unique.”
The road ahead
India’s journey in the Champions Trophy will begin on Feb. 20 in Dubai against Bangladesh, with the high-stakes clash against Pakistan set for February 23. While Pakistan will host the remainder of the tournament, India’s matches will take place in Dubai as part of the hybrid model. If India secures a spot in the final, they will return to Dubai on March 9 to compete for the trophy.
Group A includes India, Pakistan, New Zealand, and Bangladesh, while Group B features Afghanistan, Australia, South Africa, and England. Notably, Afghanistan will make their Champions Trophy debut in this edition.
Rohit’s optimism resonates deeply with the team’s ambition to reclaim glory, and the captain left no doubt about his intentions: “Each World Cup we’ve won — 2007, 2011, and now 2024 — has been celebrated at Wankhede. Bringing the Champions Trophy here would mean everything to us.”
As the countdown to the tournament begins, all eyes will be on Dubai and India’s quest to honour Rohit’s promise, rekindling the nation’s cricketing pride.
