Virat Kohli's Emotional Hug Sparks Ravindra Jadeja's ODI Retirement Talks In IND vs NZ Final

Kohli's hug for Jadeja [Source: @mufaddal_vohra/X]

Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja had a memorable day on the field, as he bowled a sensational spell in the Champions Trophy final against New Zealand. The talismanic spinner conceded only 30 runs while scalping the crucial wicket of Tom Latham in the high-octane clash. 

Kohli's Tight Hug For Jadeja Sparks Retirement Speculations

After completing his ten-over spell, Ravindra Jadeja received an emotional hug from none other than Virat Kohli, as the legendary cricketer's gesture grabbed the limelight. 

As soon as Jadeja bowled his final ball and got back his floppy hat from the on-field umpire, Kohli went near him and hugged him while congratulating him for his excellent spell. 

It's worth mentioning that Virat Kohli was spotted hugging former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin moments before the latter announced his retirement. 

Recently, Kohli also bid farewell to his friend-cum-foe Steve Smith with a hug, as the legendary Australian batter hung up his boots from ODIs after Australia's elimination from the tournament. 

Jadeja is one of the front-runners to retire from ODIs, as he is 36 years old and his chances of playing the 2027 ODI World Cup are nothing but bleak. 

Michael Bracewell's Heroics Take NZ Past 250

Riding on Michael Bracewell's blistering fifty, New Zealand posted a respectable total of 251 runs in the final. While Daryl Mitchell contributed 63 runs, Kuldeep and Varun Chakravarthy starred with the ball for India, scalping two wickets each. 

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