Sports Bulletin on February 27: Pakistan finish bottom of Group A, Rohit Sharma uncertain for New Zealand match

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In today's sports bulletin (February 27), Pakistan’s disappointing Champions Trophy campaign comes to a rain-hit conclusion, while India face an anxious wait over Rohit Sharma’s fitness ahead of their clash against New Zealand.

Elsewhere, MS Dhoni's cryptic T-shirt sparks retirement rumours, Kevin Pietersen joins Delhi Capitals as a mentor, and Liverpool extend their Premier League lead. Here's a look at the top stories.

Pakistan End Champions Trophy Campaign Winless after Bangladesh Match Washed Out

Pakistan endured a forgettable Champions Trophy 2025 campaign, becoming the first host nation in 23 years to exit the tournament without a single win. Their final Group A fixture against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi was abandoned due to rain, leaving Mohammad Rizwan's side at the bottom of the table with just one point and a negative Net Run Rate (-1.087). Despite expectations of a strong showing at home, Pakistan earlier suffered a 60-run defeat to New Zealand in Karachi and a six-wicket loss to India in Dubai, sealing their early exit from the tournament.

Rohit Sharma’s Fitness Under Scrutiny Ahead of New Zealand Clash

India face uncertainty over Rohit Sharma’s availability for their final Champions Trophy group match against New Zealand, as the skipper continues to manage a hamstring issue. Rohit was seen struggling during Pakistan’s innings and later skipped net practice on Wednesday, opting instead for light jogging and rehab work with the physio. With India already in the semi-finals, team management may rest him to avoid aggravating the injury. If Rohit sits out, KL Rahul could be pushed up to open, though it risks unsettling the middle order. Rishabh Pant and Washington Sundar also remain in contention.

Dhoni Sparks Retirement Buzz with 'One Last Time’ Morse Code T-shirt

MS Dhoni has set social media abuzz after arriving in Chennai ahead of IPL 2025, wearing a T-shirt with Morse code translating to “One Last Time.” Fans quickly speculated that the Chennai Super Kings legend might be hinting at his farewell season. While Dhoni has yet to confirm his future, CSK’s pre-season camp begins on Thursday, with all available Indian players set to join. The 42-year-old, who has led CSK to five IPL titles, remains a crucial figure for the franchise, but his cryptic message has left fans guessing.

Kevin Pietersen Joins Delhi Capitals as Mentor for IPL 2025

Former England captain Kevin Pietersen has been appointed as the mentor of Delhi Capitals ahead of IPL 2025. Pietersen, who previously captained the franchise in 2014, will work alongside a revamped coaching staff, including Hemang Badani (Head Coach), Venugopal Rao (Director of Cricket), Matthew Mott (Assistant Coach), and Munaf Patel (Bowling Coach). This marks Pietersen’s first coaching stint in the IPL. Delhi Capitals, yet to name a new captain after releasing Rishabh Pant, will open their campaign against Pant’s new team, Lucknow Super Giants, on March 24.

'Time’s Up for Buttler as England Captain’ – Hussain, Atherton Criticise Leadership After Champions Trophy Exit

England’s disastrous Champions Trophy 2025 campaign has intensified scrutiny on Jos Buttler’s captaincy, with former skippers Nasser Hussain and Michael Atherton calling for change. After England’s shock exit following an eight-run loss to Afghanistan, Atherton stated that Buttler’s leadership “isn’t working,” pointing to England’s poor showings in three consecutive ICC tournaments. Hussain criticised Buttler’s lack of commanding presence, comparing him unfavourably to Eoin Morgan. With England’s performances declining, Buttler himself admitted he would reflect on his future.

Boxer Saweety Boora Accuses Husband Deepak Hooda of Domestic Violence, Dowry Harassment

Indian boxer Saweety Boora has filed a police complaint against her husband, former kabaddi player Deepak Hooda, accusing him of physical violence and demanding a dowry of ₹1 crore and an SUV. Hooda, in turn, has alleged that Boora's family took control of his property and threatened him. The Hisar police have registered an FIR, but Hooda has yet to respond to the notice. Married in 2022, the couple—both Arjuna Awardees—are now embroiled in legal battles, with their marriage seemingly headed for separation.

Liverpool Go 13 Points Clear as Arsenal Stumble, Man City Sneak into Top Four

Liverpool tightened their grip on the Premier League title with a 2-0 win over Newcastle, extending their lead to 13 points after Arsenal were held to a goalless draw at Nottingham Forest. Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister secured the win for Arne Slot’s side, who managed from the stands due to a touchline ban. Elsewhere, Erling Haaland’s strike helped Manchester City edge Tottenham 1-0, while Manchester United’s defensive frailties resurfaced in a chaotic 3-2 win over Ipswich. Chelsea impressed with a dominant 4-0 victory against Southampton.

Endrick's Strike Gives Real Madrid Edge in Copa del Rey Semi Against Real Sociedad

Endrick's first-half goal proved decisive as Real Madrid secured a 1-0 first-leg win over Real Sociedad in their Copa del Rey semifinal. The young Brazilian capitalised on Jude Bellingham’s pass in the 19th minute to break the deadlock, while goalkeeper Andriy Lunin produced a string of crucial saves to keep Sociedad at bay. The hosts dominated possession and pressed for an equaliser, but Madrid’s counterattacking threat kept them in control. Meanwhile, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid played out a thrilling 4-4 draw in the other semifinal.