Virat Kohli credits past defeats for India's Champions Trophy triumph
What's the story
Virat Kohli has credited India's latest ICC Champions Trophy win to the lessons learned from their past defeats.
Speaking after India's triumph over NZ in the final, he said these experiences have paved the way for India to clinch their second major title in less than 12 months.
The Indian cricket team had earlier won the T20 World Cup in June last year and now lifted the Champions Trophy for the third time.
Team effort
Kohli emphasizes teamwork in ICC Champions Trophy win
Kohli lauded the entire team for their show during their UAE campaign.
He was happy to see India return to form after a tough tour of Australia.
After a tough tour of Australia, we came here and won a big tournament, which has once again boosted our confidence as a team," Kohli told the tournament's host broadcaster.
Experience matters
Kohli highlights the importance of experience in victory
Kohli stressed the importance of experienced players like Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul in sealing the deal against New Zealand.
He said these players have faced such moments before, and when they apply those learnings and work hard, they can turn things around.
"There were moments in past tournaments where we weren't able to finish games or capitalise on crucial situations. But this time, we learned from those experiences." he stated.
Strategy and success
Kohli reflects on team's strategy and personal achievements
Kohli revealed that their plan during the tournament was to concentrate on their skills and not worry too much about the opposition.
He considered himself very lucky for winning four ICC titles, calling it a blessing.
The batting maestro also looked back at his own achievements, having been a member of the winning teams in the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy.
DYK
Second-most runs for India in CT 2025
Kohli bowed out as India's second-highest run-scorer of the 2025 Champions Trophy.
He slammed 218 runs from five games at an incredible average of 54.50.
Kohli's unbeaten and match-winning century against Pakistan in India's second match helped his cause.
He also scored 84 against Australia in the semi-final. Only Shreyas Iyer (243) scored more runs than Kohli for India in the tournament.