Victorious Ponting hails Australian grit

MUMBAI: Ricky Ponting hailed Australia's coolness under pressure after the world champions swept to their maiden Champions Trophy title on Sunday, beating holders West Indies by eight wickets in the final.   

"It is a great feeling to win a tournament as big as this," a delighted Australian skipper told reporters after the rain-hit game.   

"This is the one we hadn't won. Full credit to all the guys for the way they played and applied themselves over the last month. When the big games come around, we put our hands up and perform."   

West Indies raced to a solid start before left-armer Nathan Bracken bowled the explosive Chris Gayle to take three quick wickets and help skittle them for 138 in 30.4 overs.   

"The bowlers did a terrific job there today. At 1-80 at one stage, we had our backs to the wall," Ponting said.   

"I thought Nathan's performance was outstanding. The ball he bowled to Chris put them on the backfoot. That is where the game turned."   

Australian opener Shane Watson then hit 57 not out in a 103-run third wicket partnership with Damien Martyn (47 not out) to guide Australia to a revised target of 116 after a lengthy rain interruption.   

All rounder Watson, who also took 2-11, won the player of the final award.