After India’s Champions Trophy 2025 victory, there is much talk about the future of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in international cricket. The tournament started with the Indian team facing many challenges and ended with a four wicket win over New Zealand, and now there is hope and debate about the team’s direction.

Before the Champions Trophy, the Indian team was struggling with a series of losses – a ODI series loss to Sri Lanka, a Test series loss at home to New Zealand and a loss in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy to Australia. Even the die hards were questioning the team’s prospects. But the final match of the tournament showed a turnaround, India won against New Zealand and that’s what the fans and experts are celebrating.

After the win Virat Kohli, the backbone of the Indian batting, spoke to the media and reflected on the journey. He was full of pride in the team’s fight back after the tough Australian tour. “Winning the Champions Trophy is amazing for us” he said. “We wanted to get back to top level of international cricket and this win is a result of our hardwork and determination.”

Kohli spoke about the young players in the team and how talented they are. “The dressing room is full of talent and it’s amazing to see the young players pushing their limits. As senior players we are here to share our experiences and guide them which is what makes this Indian team strong” he said.

He expanded on the importance of performing under pressure, saying, "These are the games we play for - titles, pressure situations and stepping up when it matters most. Everyone has contributed throughout the tournament and it feels great to be part of such a team. Our hard work in the nets has paid off."

Kohli also spoke about the future of the team, hinting at his and Rohit Sharma’s eventual retirement from international cricket. "When you leave, you want to leave the team in a better position than when you arrived. I truly believe we have a team that can take on the world for the next 8 years. Shubman Gill has been outstanding, Shreyas Iyer has delivered big innings, KL Rahul has finished games so well and Hardik Pandya has batted so well," he said.

He praised New Zealand quite comprehensively. "New Zealand have always impressed us with their execution and with not much talent to choose from. They play aggressive cricket and back their bowlers well. Their fielding is one of the best in the world. It was sad to see my friend Kane Williamson on the losing side but their consistency and backs to the basics makes them a threat."

As Kohli and the Indian team celebrate their Champions Trophy victory, the cricketing world watches closely, pondering the future of these legendary players and the legacy they will leave behind.