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In a candid interview ahead of the highly anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final between India and New Zealand, sports presenter and actress Sahiba Bali was left speechless by the remarks from Team India batter Shreyas Iyer. The conversation, which has gone viral on social media, captured the lighthearted and humorous side of the Indian team as they prepare to face off against the Black at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on March 9, 2025.
Shreyas Iyer leaves Sahiba Bali speechless
During the interview for Star Sports India, Sahiba asked Shreyas about his plans for celebrating if India emerges victorious in the tournament. Shreyas, known for his calm demeanour on the field, surprised the actress-cum-presenter with a cheeky response that left her stunned.
When asked about his celebration plans, Iyer quipped, “How will I celebrate? I can’t tell you right now.”
“I have stayed in the present, all the time,” he added.
After listening to Iyer’s answer, Sahiba didn’t had much to say and just replied: “Aapne meri bolti band kar di (You’ve stopped me from speaking).”
Swag ho to Iyer bhai jaisa #INDvsNZ pic.twitter.com/SZMA72Hi3M
— Kumar Sourav (@AdamDhoni1) March 9, 2025
This exchange not only showcased Iyer’s playful personality but also highlighted the team’s relaxed and confident mindset ahead of the big match.
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India or New Zealand – Who will clinch the 2025 Champions Trophy?
The Indian team, led by Rohit Sharma, has dominated the tournament so far, winning all their group stage matches and then defeating Australia in the semi-finals. Shreyas has been a key contributor to India’s success, batting at number four and amassing 195 runs in four matches with an impressive average of 48.75, including two half-centuries3.
The Champions Trophy 2025 final marks a significant encounter between India and New Zealand, as the two teams face each other in a final for the first time since 2000. In their previous final meeting, New Zealand emerged victorious by four wickets. This time around, India are looking to reverse that outcome and claim the trophy after a 12-year drought.
New Zealand, however, poses a formidable challenge. They have consistently punched above their weight in ICC tournaments and have a strong record in knockout matches against India, leading 3-1 in such encounters. The Black Caps will rely on their all-round strength, with players like Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson playing pivotal roles in their semifinal win against South Africa.
Despite the pressure, the Indian team seems focused and composed. In addition to Iyer’s impressive form, other key players like Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Varun Chakravarthy and Hardik Pandya are expected to play crucial roles in the final. The team’s balanced attack, featuring a four-pronged spin force, has been a significant factor in their success throughout the tournament.
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