The master batsman, whose unbeaten 117 and 91 in the two finals against Australia was the key to victories, also cautioned against getting too euphoric about the triumph, saying the team has to take gradual steps towards becoming the world’s best side.

“It’s important we take gradual steps. So far the youngsters have done a fantastic job,” he said after the thrilling nine-run win over Australia that gave India their maiden tri-series win Down Under.

“This young team has done very well but if you look at cricketers who have been around for 7-8 years, they have contributed in a big manner as well,” he added.

Tendulkar also downplayed his individual contribution to the team’s win and said the triumph was a collective effort.

“I don’t want to speak about my performance but my feeling is everyone has done an excellent job,” he said.

Although busy celebrating, a few other members of the team also spoke about the nerve-wracking final that went right down to the wire.

All-rounder Irfan Pathan talked at length about the final over which he was asked to deliver. “Mahi (Mahendra Singh Dhoni), after the first two balls, told me not to worry: you are not as bad a bowler that you would be hit for three fours in as many balls,” he said.“That gave me the confidence. I had gone for cheap runs in the game but it wasn’t for bad bowling. Some were overthrows, some streaky boundaries and all that, but my rhythm was good and I was able to swing the deliveries,” he added.