Who Is Sophie Shine, Mystery Woman Spotted Sitting Next To Shikhar Dhawan At Champions Trophy 2025? | WATCH

Former Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan has found himself in the spotlight after being seen with a mystery woman during the ongoing Champions Trophy 2025.

Dhawan, who is currently serving as the tournament's official ambassador, was spotted watching the India vs Bangladesh match in Dubai on Thursday alongside the unidentified woman.

A photograph of the left-handed batter enjoying the match with the woman has gone viral on social media, sparking speculation about their relationship.

Numerous images and videos of the two have been widely circulated, fuelling discussions among fans.

Several media reports have claimed that the woman in question is Sophie Shine from Ireland.

A video is going viral on social media from the Champions Trophy match between India and Bangladesh, where a lady is seen sitting with @SDhawan25 in the stadium. She is Sophie Shine, a business consultant from Ireland#ChampionsTrophy#IndvsBan#ShikharDhawan pic.twitter.com/pIpvbgjpTD

— Vaibhav yadav (@AsTs62487) February 21, 2025

While there has been no official confirmation regarding their relationship, it has been noted that Dhawan follows Shine on social media.

भारत बांग्लादेश मैच के दौरान वापसी करते शिखर धवन 🤦🏻‍♂️ pic.twitter.com/4OVhrGAVUj

— Anshika Singh Yadav (@Anshika_in) February 20, 2025

Meanwhile, Dhawan has shared his thoughts on India's prospects in the tournament, stating that the team will "very strongly" feel the absence of pace bowler Jasprit Bumrah in the Champions Trophy. However, he remains confident that India has a strong chance of winning, given their recent form and the presence of several match-winners.

Bumrah was ruled out of the tournament due to a lower back injury, having borne a significant workload during India's five-match Test series against Australia.

"My concern is they are going to miss Jasprit Bumrah, there is no doubt he will be a big absence and I think they will feel it very strongly," Dhawan wrote in an ICC column published on Tuesday.

"For me, he is the best bowler in the world, and his accuracy is hard to replicate. He is also a very calm character and that is crucial in a huge ICC event like this."

Dhawan, however, is backing Shubman Gill and Harshit Rana to shine in the tournament.

"At the same time, Harshit Rana has come into the side and I think that is really exciting - keep an eye on him, I think he could have a breakout tournament.

"I like his attitude, he is a go-getter and he is not afraid of anything. He accepts challenges and we have seen in the England series that he is in form. I am sure he will look to seize this opportunity and, if he does, he could provide a real X-factor for India."

Looking at India's recent form and team strength, Dhawan believes they are strong contenders for the title.

"There are a lot of reasons to be optimistic for India. They have a very balanced side, especially with the bat - there is a nice blend of experience and youth. Shubman Gill, in particular, is so consistent and he has a big role to play. I think he will have a great tournament."

(With PTI inputs)