Reliving Pakistan's historic victory over India in the 2017 Champions Trophy final

June 18, 2017, remains etched in the annals of cricket history as Pakistan, against all odds, clinched the ICC Champions Trophy by outplaying their arch-rivals India in a one-sided final.

The clash, held at the iconic Kennington Oval in London, marked a watershed moment for Pakistan cricket, showcasing their resilience and mettle on the grand stage.

The stage was set for a high-stakes encounter between two cricketing powerhouses. Pakistan, a team often considered the underdog against India in ICC tournaments, unleashed a formidable performance to claim their maiden Champions Trophy title. Led by Sarfaraz Ahmed,

Pakistan's journey to the final was a mix of grit, determination, and standout individual performances.

The final itself was a spectacle of skill and nerve. Pakistan's batting prowess came to the fore as they posted a commanding total of 338 runs for the loss of four wickets in their allotted 50 overs.

Fakhar Zaman, with his explosive century (114 runs), set the tone early on, ably supported by Azhar Ali and Babar Azam. The Pakistani batting lineup showcased depth and resilience, ensuring a formidable target for their opponents.

India, known for their strong batting lineup, faltered under pressure as they crumbled to 158 runs, falling short by a massive 180-run margin.

The Indian batting order, including stalwarts like Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni, struggled against Pakistan's disciplined bowling attack led by Mohammad Amir and Hasan Ali. Hardik Pandya's valiant effort with the bat, scoring a brisk 76 off 43 balls, was a lone bright spot amidst India's batting collapse.

The road to the final was not without its challenges for both teams. India's journey saw them dominate the group stage before overcoming Bangladesh in the semi-final. Meanwhile, Pakistan's path included victories against strong contenders like England in the semi-final, showcasing their ability to rise to the occasion when it mattered most.

The historic victory in the Champions Trophy final not only marked a significant achievement for Pakistan cricket but also highlighted the unpredictable and thrilling nature of cricketing contests between traditional rivals.

Fakhar Zaman's stellar performance earned him the well-deserved player of the match accolade, symbolizing Pakistan's collective effort and determination in securing a memorable triumph over India in 2017.