Champions Trophy Highlights: Kohli's Triumphant Return, Smith Bids Farewell

Champions Trophy: Key Storylines from the Tournament

In the high-stakes final against New Zealand, Rohit Sharma led from the front with a commanding knock, guiding India to a successful chase. His calmness under pressure paved the way for a resounding victory.

Here are five major storylines from the 50-over tournament:

• Kohli Silences Critics
  Virat Kohli put an end to doubts about his Test form with a match-winning unbeaten century against arch-rivals Pakistan.
  On a sluggish Dubai pitch, he anchored India’s chase of 242 with crucial partnerships, ensuring victory by six wickets with 45 balls to spare.
  Kohli was also instrumental in the semi-final against Australia, scoring 84 to guide another successful run chase.
  Opposition skipper Steve Smith hailed Kohli as "arguably the best chaser the game has seen."

• Pakistan’s Homecoming Disappointment
  Hosting a major cricket event for the first time in 30 years, Pakistan’s excitement was dampened by their poor performance.
  India’s refusal to travel resulted in all their matches being played in Dubai, but Pakistan’s on-field struggles—losses to New Zealand and India—ended their title defense.
  To make matters worse, their final group match against Bangladesh was washed out.
  A dejected fan compared the tournament to "a wedding where you don’t know the bride or groom."

• Superman Phillips’ Magic Moment
  Glenn Phillips showcased his fielding brilliance, particularly in the group stage against India, where he took a stunning diving catch to dismiss Kohli for 11 off Matt Henry’s bowling.
  Kohli stood in disbelief before walking off, as the Dubai crowd fell silent.
  The moment went viral, with one fan on X calling Phillips "the Superman of the tournament."

• England Captain Buttler Steps Down
  England entered the tournament after a 3-0 ODI series loss to India but started strong, posting 351 against Australia.
  However, Australia chased it down, leaving England on the brink of elimination.
  A shock defeat to Afghanistan sealed their fate, and two days later, Jos Buttler resigned as England’s white-ball captain after three consecutive ICC tournament failures.

• Smith Retires, Rohit Stays
  After Australia’s semi-final loss to India, Steve Smith, 35, announced his retirement from ODI cricket.
  Smith top-scored with 73, but his effort wasn’t enough as India chased down 264.
  Meanwhile, speculation swirled that Rohit Sharma might retire after the final. However, after top-scoring with 76 in India’s victory, Rohit dismissed the rumors, reassuring fans that he wasn’t going anywhere.