was filled with emotions after winning the Champions Trophy for the second time in his illustrious career. India defeated New Zealand by four wickets in the final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday, March 9, to win back-to-back ICC titles.

Kohli was dismissed cheaply on Sunday but scored a century against Pakistan in the group stage and a match-winning 84 against Australia in the semi-final. Overall, he finished with 218 runs from five innings at an average of 54.50.

The 36-year-old was under immense scrutiny after failing to get among the runs during India's 1-3 capitulation against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar series earlier this year. However, both he and the Indian team silenced the critics with splendid performances in the Champions Trophy. Kohli said that the players were motivated to turn things around after the debacle in the red-ball format. He also praised the youngsters in the team for contributing in pressure situations.

"It's been amazing, we wanted to bounce back after a tough Australia tour. Lovely playing with a bunch of amazing youngsters. They're stepping up and taking India in the right direction. After playing for so long, you look forward to playing under pressure. To win titles, the whole team has to step up in different games. People have played such impactful knocks and had spells, that collective effort is what has done it for us," Kohli said after the final.

"I try to speak to these guys, try to share my experience, tell them how I've played for so long. When you leave, you want to leave in a better position. So many impactful knocks Gill, Shreyas, Rahul, all have played. The team is in good hands," he added.

Kohli acknowledged New Zealand's prowess, especially their fielding display throughout the tournament. He also empathised with good friend Kane Williamson, who failed to win his second ICC event.

"We've always been in awe of what NZ can do with limited number of players. They come in with a set plan. Every fielder knows where the bowler will bowl. They have immense belief in their skills, best fielding side. Huge shoutout to them. Sad to see a very good friend (Kane Williamson) on the losing side, only love between us," Kohli mentioned.

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India chased down a 252-run target in the final with four wickets and an over to spare. Rohit Sharma was named as the Player of the Final after scoring a crucial 76 off 83 balls.