SAMSUL AREFIN KHAN from Dubai

In less than nine months, India once again found themselves on the champions’ podium -- this time in the ICC Champions Trophy -- after defeating New Zealand by four wickets in the final in Dubai yesterday. The victory also saw India become the first team to win the prestigious title three times, in 2013 and when they were named joint-champions with hosts Sri Lanka in 2002.

Despite a few hiccups, India rarely looked in trouble as they chased down the 252-run target set by New Zealand with an over to spare, backed by a passionate Indian crowd at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

In stark contrast to their 11-year drought in ICC events following their second Champions Trophy title in 2013,

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