Champions Trophy final: Here's why Ashwin hopes for Rohit’s 12th consecutive toss loss

Ahead of the Champions Trophy final between India and New Zealand, former spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has expressed an unusual wish—he hopes Rohit Sharma loses the toss again. Rohit has endured a poor run with the toss, having lost every one since India's 2023 ODI World Cup semi-final against New Zealand at Wankhede. With 11 consecutive toss losses, he is closing in on Brian Lara’s unwanted record of 12.

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Ashwin believes that losing the toss would not affect India, as they have proved their ability to both defend and chase in Dubai. He suggested that letting New Zealand choose their preferred option could challenge India but would not put them in serious trouble.

Meanwhile, India's vice-captain Shubman Gill downplayed concerns about Rohit’s luck with the toss, stating that it does not put the team under pressure. He emphasized that players are always prepared, whether they bat or bowl first. Though the team jokes about Rohit’s toss record, they remain confident in their ability to perform under any conditions.

With the final set for Sunday, March 9, India will be focused on clinching the Champions Trophy title, regardless of the outcome of the toss. However, all eyes will still be on whether Rohit finally breaks his losing streak or equals Lara’s record.