Champions Trophy 2025: Rohit Sharma declines Sunil Gavaskar, Ravi Shastri requests pose closer to trophy

Champions Trophy 2025: India captain Rohit Sharma captured attention with a humble yet powerful gesture during the 50th-anniversary celebrations of Mumbai's iconic Wankhede Stadium on January 19, 2025.

While posing with the Champions Trophy alongside cricket legends Sunil Gavaskar, Sachin Tendulkar, and Ravi Shastri, Rohit politely declined an invitation from Gavaskar and Shastri to stand closer to the coveted trophy. Instead, he stepped aside, allowing the senior cricket icons to take the spotlight in front of a jubilant audience.

Rohit Sharma Champions Trophy viral video — Rohit Sharma urges legends to pose with the Champions Trophy. Photos: PTI and Twitter

The video of this moment quickly went viral, showcasing Rohit's respect for Mumbai cricket stalwarts. Despite stepping back, Rohit made it clear in his speech that his focus remains unwavering: Bringing the Champions Trophy back to Indian soil. Addressing the crowd, he said, "We will do everything we can to bring this trophy back here to Wankhede," drawing thunderous applause from fans.

The ceremony also recalled InChampions Trophydia's triumphant T20 World Cup celebrations in 2024, which included a grand bus parade in Mumbai. Rohit reminisced about the storm-delayed planning in Barbados and emphasized Wankhede's significance in Indian cricket history, highlighting past World Cup victories celebrated at the venue.

Looking ahead, India's squad for Champions Trophy 2025, announced a day before the event, is poised for a strong campaign starting February 20 in Dubai. With stalwarts like Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and Shubman Gill, alongside seasoned leaders like Rohit himself, the team is gearing up for high-stakes clashes, including a marquee game against arch-rivals Pakistan on February 23.

This Champions Trophy might be Rohit Sharma's final ICC event as captain, adding emotional weight to his commitment. A member of India's 2013 Champions Trophy-winning squad, Rohit aims to replicate that success and bid farewell to ICC tournaments on a high note.