Dhawan Reflects on 2013 Champions Trophy Glory Ahead of NZ Final

Synopsis

Shikhar Dhawan recalls India's 2013 Champions Trophy win as they approach the final against New Zealand. He expresses nostalgia for the victory and offers insights into the current team's performance and the strategic inclusion of Varun Chakaravarthy, highlighting the contributions of veterans like Virat Kohli and Mohammed Shami.

Key Takeaways

Dhawan reflects on the nostalgic 2013 Champions Trophy win.
India has reached the final for the third time, showcasing excellent form.
Varun Chakaravarthy's inclusion is seen as a game-changer for the team.
Key veterans like Kohli and Shami play crucial roles in the team's success.
Dhawan expresses confidence in India's spinners against New Zealand.

New Delhi, March 9 (NationPress) Former opener Shikhar Dhawan reminisces about India's triumph in the 2013 Champions Trophy as they prepare for the final against New Zealand this Sunday. He expressed that seeing the Men in Blue reach the finals for the third time brings back the joy of lifting the prestigious trophy.

Dhawan, who concluded his international career in August last year, played for India in 34 Tests, 167 ODIs, and 68 T20Is from 2010 to 2022. He participated in two Champions Trophy Finals, the first being the victorious 2013 campaign and the second in 2017 where they fell short against Pakistan.

"A victory that is hard to forget, the memories from 2013 remain fresh. Watching the current team reach the finals reminds me of the immense joy and pride that comes with lifting that trophy. Here’s to hoping for another historic moment! Best of luck to the team; bring it home!" Dhawan shared on Instagram.

While India has made an unbeaten run to the final, their journey took an intriguing turn against New Zealand during the Group A playoffs. Dhawan praised the addition of 'mystery' spinner Varun Chakaravarthy to the squad.

In last week's Group A match in Dubai, which India won by 44 runs, Chakaravarthy dazzled with his variations, claiming 5-42. In the semi-final against Australia, he secured two wickets, including the dangerous Travis Head during the initial power-play.

“India has consistently played exceptional cricket... (but) a turning point was the strategic personnel change midway through the tournament. I appreciate the decision to include an extra spinner, Varun Chakaravarthy – that was a transformative move and a brilliant choice by the captain and coaching staff.

“He has provided India with a more balanced lineup, particularly on slower, turning pitches. It's challenging for batters to read Varun’s deliveries, which has given India a significant edge, leading to their dominance,” Dhawan told the ICC.

“I firmly believe India’s spinners will overpower New Zealand’s batters, who will struggle against Varun Chakaravarthy – he is bound to play a crucial role. Our batting lineup is performing exceptionally well, and I trust that this will continue,” he added.

Dhawan also acknowledged the contributions of key veterans Virat Kohli and Mohammed Shami throughout the tournament.

“(Shami) has made a strong comeback to international cricket post-injury. Competing in a significant tournament like this comes with pressure, and experienced players are essential to manage that, which he has done well.

“When I met him, he was dedicated to improving his fitness, and his commitment and discipline towards the game are remarkable. When you invest such effort, you deserve to see results,” he concluded.