LAHORE: Pakistan completed nine years of their historic run in the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy by defeating India by 180 runs in the final at the Oval to clinch their maiden title.
Batting first, Pakistan scored 338 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in 50 overs, which India could not chase down and were bowled out for 158 runs.
Led by captain Sarfaraz Ahmed, Pakistan produced a brilliant performance in the final, which remains one of the most celebrated moments in the country’s cricketing history.
Reflecting on the achievement, former captain Sarfaraz described the win as an unforgettable moment in his career while crediting the entire team and support staff for the success.
“Winning the ICC Champions Trophy was an unforgettable moment in my career,” said Sarfaraz. “It’s a joint effort of the entire team, coaching staff, administration and selection committee.”
Opener Faqar Zaman, who played a solid innings in the final and scored 114 runs off 106 balls including 12 fours and 3 sixes, said the event was etched in his memory.
“The final and the day’s innings are still unforgettable,” Zaman said. The ICC Champions Trophy taught me a lot.
Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed remembers watching the final from home and celebrating the win with excitement. He also shared a personal memory of meeting Sarfaraz Ahmed when the trophy arrived in Karachi.
“I watched the final at home and was very happy with Pakistan’s win,” Abrar said.
“When Sarfaraz brought the trophy to Karachi, I went to his house but could not see it up close because of the crowd. Seeing the trophy up close now is a special moment for me,” he added.
Fast bowler Khurram Shahzad revealed that he was part of the team’s preparation phase as a net bowler at the National Cricket Academy ahead of the tournament, giving a closer look at the team’s pride.
“I was the net bowler for the Pakistan team at the National Cricket Academy during the camp organized for the ICC Champions Trophy,” said Shahzad.
All-rounder Amir Jamal said the victory was a proud national moment and memories of the semifinals and finals are still vivid.
He also reflected on a decisive change of pace during the final, how a brief loss on the field momentarily took the pressure off India and allowed Pakistan to feel the pressure at a critical juncture in the game.
“When Virat Kohli’s catch was dropped, the pressure was on for everyone, but Shatab Khan’s brilliant catch on the next ball brought Pakistan back into the match,” he said.
The 2017 win is considered one of Pakistan cricket’s greatest achievements and its legacy is still felt strongly nine years on.
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