After a commanding performance, India clinched the Champions Trophy title by defeating New Zealand in the final. Key players from the Indian team shared their thoughts on this significant victory and their journey throughout the tournament.
Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli expressed immense satisfaction with the win, emphasizing the team’s determination to rebound after a challenging tour of Australia. He lauded the team’s collective effort and the remarkable talent of the young players who are shaping the future of Indian cricket. Kohli highlighted the importance of senior players sharing their experience to guide the youngsters. He pointed out that the team’s success was a result of everyone stepping up at different moments, showcasing impactful performances throughout the tournament. Kohli praised the team spirit and the enjoyable atmosphere both on and off the field.
He also acknowledged New Zealand’s consistent performance in major tournaments, attributing it to their strategic planning, strong belief in their skills, and exceptional fielding. While acknowledging the disappointment for his friend Kane Williamson, Kohli reiterated the mutual respect and camaraderie between the two teams.
KL Rahul
KL Rahul admitted to feeling the pressure during the tense moments of the final but maintained confidence in the team’s batting depth. He emphasized the importance of composure in high-pressure situations and expressed his happiness in contributing to the victory. Rahul reflected on the opportunities he had in the tournament to bat under pressure, which prepared him for crucial moments like the final. He credited India’s strong domestic cricket structure and the BCCI’s role in nurturing talent and providing platforms for players to excel under pressure.
Shubman Gill
Shubman Gill described the win as an “amazing feeling,” especially after missing out on a previous opportunity in 2023. He recounted enjoying Rohit Sharma’s batting from the other end and emphasized the importance of their partnership. Gill shared Rohit Sharma’s advice to focus on the scoreboard and play till the end. He spoke of the surreal experience of playing alongside Virat Kohli, having watched him as a child, and admired Kohli’s phenomenal intensity and commitment to giving his all for the game, both on and off the field.
Hardik Pandya
Hardik Pandya expressed his delight in winning an ICC event, particularly the Champions Trophy, recalling the team’s near miss in 2017. He praised KL Rahul for his calm and composed innings in the final, highlighting Rahul’s exceptional talent for hitting the ball and his match-winning capabilities.
Shreyas Iyer
Shreyas Iyer was ecstatic about winning his first ICC trophy, finding it hard to express his emotions. He commended the team’s performance throughout the tournament and their consistent progress. Iyer expressed his love for pressure situations, feeling he thrives under challenges. Despite not scoring a big individual score, he found immense satisfaction in contributing to the team’s victory.
Ravindra Jadeja
Ravindra Jadeja described his batting position as one where he could be either a hero or a zero. He emphasized the significance of the partnership between KL Rahul and Hardik Pandya, which he considered a game-changing moment. Jadeja acknowledged the challenging batting conditions and highlighted the importance of winning major tournaments for India. He expressed his satisfaction in being fit and performing at a high level, contributing to victories in both the 2024 T20 World Cup and the Champions Trophy.
Kuldeep Yadav
Kuldeep Yadav expressed relief at not having to bat and credited KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja for finishing the game. He dismissed the “favorites” tag and praised Rohit Sharma’s exceptional captaincy in managing four spinners. Yadav explained the detailed planning involved in utilizing the spinners effectively, highlighting the strategic approach taken over several days. He concluded by anticipating celebrations from the team and the entire nation.
