Dubai, March 10: As India celebrated their triumphant Champions Trophy victory on Sunday, the spotlight was not solely on the gleaming trophy that captain Rohit Sharma hoisted into the Dubai sky. Equally eye-catching were the distinctive white jackets donned by the Indian squad—an exclusive symbol of their championship triumph.
Handed out before the trophy presentation, each player slipped into a tailor-made white blazer adorned with the tournament logo on the chest pocket. More than just a stylish addition to their wardrobe, these jackets serve as a lifelong keepsake, much like the revered green jacket awarded to Masters champions in golf.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) marked the unveiling of this year’s jackets with a special promotional video featuring Pakistan legend Wasim Akram, who observed the craftsmanship behind their creation. Announcing the tradition’s continuation, the governing body described the jackets as “the ultimate measure of greatness and determination.”
“The white jacket is a badge of honour adorned by champions,” the ICC stated. “It represents the relentless pursuit of tactical brilliance and a legacy that inspires future generations.”
When Did the Tradition Begin?
Although the Champions Trophy debuted in 1998, the iconic white jackets were introduced much later. It wasn’t until the sixth edition of the tournament, held in South Africa, that the winning team received this unique honour. Australia, led by Ricky Ponting, became the first recipients of the white blazers after their victory over New Zealand in the 2009 final in Centurion.
Since then, the tradition has continued. India first sported the jackets in 2013 after narrowly defeating England by five runs in a rain-affected final at Edgbaston. However, Pakistan denied them a second set in 2017, clinching a commanding 180-run win at Lord’s.
Now, with another Champions Trophy triumph to their name, India once again joins the elite group of teams to have donned cricket’s most exclusive attire—a sartorial statement of sporting excellence. (Agencies)
