NEW DELHI: Cricketers have their own unique ways of celebrating major tournament victories, shaped by their team culture, the tournament’s significance, and their individual personalities.
From popping champagne bottles to drenching teammates in energy drinks or water, celebrations often take on a lively and festive tone. Some players take a victory lap with the national flag, acknowledging the fans, while others mimic famous celebrations or showcase their dance moves.
A Tradition of Celebratory Moves
When India won the 2013 Champions Trophy under MS Dhoni’s captaincy, Virat Kohli stole the show by dancing to ‘Gangnam Style’ and doing push-ups in front of his cheering teammates.
Fast forward to March 9, 2025—India clinched their third Champions Trophy title after defeating New Zealand by four wickets in the final in Dubai. This time, with Kohli as a senior statesman rather than captain, it was Shreyas Iyer who took center stage, showing off his dance skills—something fans have often seen on his social media.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) shared a side-by-side clip of Kohli’s 2013 dance and Iyer’s 2025 moves, captioning it:
“Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer sure know how to groove.”
India’s Dominance in the Champions Trophy
With this victory, India surpassed Australia, becoming the most successful team in Champions Trophy history with titles in 2002, 2013, and now 2025.
Ranked No.1 in ODIs, India remained unbeaten in the eight-nation tournament, which was hosted across Pakistan and the UAE. However, due to India’s refusal to tour Pakistan, all their matches were played at the Dubai International Stadium.
