Former India skipper Rahul Dravid on Tuesday lauded Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s men for their “brilliant” title triumph in the Champions Trophy, saying “right balance” and “fantastic” fielding helped them claim the prestigious title in England.
India enjoyed an undefeated run in the tournament as it clinched the title with a five-run victory over England in the rain-reduced final on Sunday.
“They were the best team. They didn’t panic in crucial situations; they won the critical moments towards the end of both the innings. India’s batting, to get them to 130, the partnership between Kohli and Jadeja and also bowling towards the end. So India were the better team on the day as well,” Dravid said.
“I think the great thing that India had in this squad is balance. The conditions in England surprised us, I mean look at how much the ball spun, so because of the nature of wicket, it helped India play seven batsman with (Ravindra) Jadeja at number seven and actually five frontline bowlers. In the past, India didn’t have that luxury. They played brilliantly,” he added.
The 40-year-old also lauded India’s fielding during the eight-nation one-day tournament, which was held for the last time.
