The International Cricket Council (ICC) awards prestigious white jackets to the winning team of the Champions Trophy, a tradition that began in 2009. These jackets, crafted from fine white silk, serve as a memento of the team's success and embody the ultimate measure of greatness and determination. The team members get to keep these jackets for life, a testament to their triumph on the field.
This tradition started with Ricky Ponting's Australian team, who became the first recipients of the white blazers during the sixth edition of the tournament, held in South Africa. Since then, the jackets have become a coveted prize, reminiscent of the iconic green jacket awarded at golf's Masters in Augusta. The ICC ensures that each player receives a perfectly fitting jacket, with measurements taken a day before by a tailor, as described by cricketer Steven Finn.
"The day before a tailor comes, measures you up for these jackets in this white silk material," – Steven Finn
The Indian cricket team has proudly donned these striking jackets twice. They first wore them in 2013 after narrowly defeating England by five runs at Edgbaston. The team again celebrated in white in 2017 following a commanding victory over Pakistan by 180 runs at Lord's. These results stand as reminders of their achievements and the hard work that led them to glory.
The process of making these jackets is elaborate, as illustrated in a video featuring cricket legend Wasim Akram. This careful craftsmanship adds to their uniqueness and special place in cricket history. According to the ICC, the white jackets are not just a prize but a symbol of a team's greatness and determination.
Steven Finn describes the jackets as a "striking look," emphasizing their visual impact and significance. These garments are deeply embedded in Champions Trophy tradition, representing both the victory and the hard-earned success of the winning teams. They serve as an enduring reminder that resonates with players and fans alike.
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