'Wanted to bounce back after tough Australia tour' - Virat Kohli after India's Champions Trophy triumph

Virat Kohli was filled with emotions after winning the Champions Trophy for the second time in his illustrious career. India defeated New Zealand by four wickets in the final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday, March 9, to win back-to-back ICC titles.

Kohli was dismissed cheaply on Sunday but scored a century against Pakistan in the group stage and a match-winning 84 against Australia in the semi-final. Overall, he finished with 218 runs from five innings at an average of 54.50.

The 36-year-old was under immense scrutiny after failing to get among the runs during India's 1-3 capitulation against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar series earlier this year. However, both he and the Indian team silenced the critics with splendid performances in the Champions Trophy. Kohli said that the players were motivated to turn things around after the debacle in the red-ball format. He also praised the youngsters in the team for contributing in pressure situations.

"It’s been a long time since we've had a Champions Trophy, and the format is really good. This was our aim. After a tough tour of Australia, we came here and won a big tournament, which has once again boosted our confidence as a team. Throughout the tournament, different players stepped up in different matches," Kohli told Star Sports.

"There were moments in past tournaments where we weren’t able to finish games or capitalize on crucial situations. But this time, we learned from those experiences. That’s why you back experienced players—they have faced these moments before, and when you apply those learnings and work hard, you get a chance to turn things around.

"The way KL (Rahul) finished in the last two matches is a testament to that experience. When you’ve been in those situations before and couldn’t cross the line, there’s always a desire to get another opportunity and overcome it. And that’s exactly what we did.

"One thing we kept emphasizing throughout the tournament was focusing on our skills—how good we are, not how good the opposition is. Despite all the challenges, this is why you play the game—for these big tournaments. Winning four ICC titles is truly a blessing, and I consider myself very lucky to have played for so long and achieved this," he said.

Sad to see a very good friend on the losing side: Virat Kohli

Kohli acknowledged New Zealand's prowess, especially their fielding display throughout the tournament. He also empathised with good friend Kane Williamson, who failed to win his second ICC event.

"We've always been in awe of what New Zealand can do with limited number of players. They come in with a set plan. Every fielder knows where the bowler will bowl. They have immense belief in their skills, best fielding side. Huge shoutout to them. Sad to see a very good friend (Kane Williamson) on the losing side, only love between us," Kohli further mentioned.

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India chased down a 252-run target in the final with four wickets and an over to spare. Rohit Sharma was named as the Player of the Final after scoring a crucial 76 off 83 balls.