Champions Trophy: What's the tradition behind the iconic white jackets?

The Champions Trophy, first held in 1998, did not include the white jackets for the winning team. It wasn't introduced until the tournament's sixth edition in 2009.

Cricket has long remained a fashion-free zone, but whenever the Champions Trophy take place, all eyes get fixed on the iconic white jackets awarded to winning team members.

On Sunday, members of the Indian cricket team were seen wearing these jackets after defeating New Zealand in the final at Dubai International Stadium. The players will keep the custom-made jackets as a special memento for life.

The white jackets feature gold braiding, with the Champions Trophy logo embroidered in the fabric and outlined in gold.

Ahead of this year’s tournament, the ICC paid tribute to the iconic white jackets with a promo video featuring Pakistan cricket legend and former captain Wasim Akram.

"The white jacket is a badge of honor worn by champions," the video said. "These jackets symbolize the relentless pursuit of tactical brilliance and a legacy that inspires generations."

When did this tradition begin?

The Champions Trophy, first held in 1998, did not include the white jackets for the winning team. It wasn't until the tournament's sixth edition in 2009, held in South Africa, that the iconic white jackets were introduced.

Australia, led by Ricky Ponting, were the first to receive the white blazers after defeating New Zealand by six wickets in the final at the Centurion.

India had the opportunity to don the jackets after defeating England at Edgbaston in 2013.

In 2017, Pakistan denied India another chance to wear them, defeating their arch-rivals in the final by 180 runs.

Virat Kohli lifts the trophy as he celebrates winning the ICC Men's Champions Trophy

Who designed the white jacket?

The jacket was conceptualised by Mumbai fashion designer Babita M, whose collections are sold in several high-profile outlets.

How are the jackets fitted?

A tailor is sent to measure each player from teams that have reached the final so the the jackets fit perfectly.

According to former English pacer Stuart Broad, who was part of the England squad in the 2013 final, told BBC Podcast, "The day before the final, a tailor comes and measures you for the jackets, which are made of white silk material. In 2013, against India, we were on target to chase it down, and the white jacket was very much in my sights. I might need to contact that tailor and see if he can let it out a bit so I can wear it soon"