Triumphant Pakistan team returns home with Champions Trophy

LAHORE - Players of Pakistan team who clinched Champions Trophy 2017 after thrashing India in a major blow returned home amid tight security and warm welcome by enthusiastic cricket lovers.

On Sunday, Pakistan thrashed favourites India by 180 runs in a thrilling competition at London’s Oval ground to get the Champions Trophy title.

Meanwhile, Pakistan team skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed and Rumman Raees arrived at Karachi airport this morning where Governor Sindh Muhammad Zubair and Mayor Karachi Waseem Akhtar received the victorious captain.

Officials at the airport and public did not miss the chance to have a selfie with Pakistani captain.

Sarfaraz Ahmed displayed the trophy at the airport to the cricket lovers. After arriving home, he once again waved the trophy from his balcony to double the cheers of much delighted fans gathered around his house for a glimpse of his captain.

Sarfraz responding to slogans of fans said, “This is your trophy and we won it just because of you. He also sang the song "Moka Moka" along with the crowds standing before his house.

Four players, including Hassan Ali, Babar Azam, Fahim Ashraf and Ahmad Shahzad, landed at Allam Iqbal International Airport, Lahore in the wee hours of Tuesday, where they were warmly welcomed by the provincial ministers and a crowd of their fans. Players were provided foolproof security at the airport.

Fakhar Zaman, a young batting sensation, has also reached his hometown, Mardan, amid foolproof security. After arriving home, he said that Champions Trophy was a Eid gift for whole nation.

"Coach and captain of the team advises me of playing every match as a final," he added.

Shadab Khan and Imad Wasim arrived at the Benazir Bhutto International Airport in Islamabad around 7:30 AM, while Haris Sohail landed at Sialkot airport.