The architect of New South Wales' Champions League Twenty20 triumph, Brett Lee says he always strives to rise to the big occasions and it was immensely satisfying to shine in Friday night's final against Trinidad & Tobago.
NSW were in tatters before Lee's 31-ball 48 powered them to a competitive 159 for nine. The tearaway pacer returned to claim two early wickets to unhinge T&T.
Lee, who bagged both the Man of the Match and Man of the Series awards, said he is a big-match player and happy to have made his mark in the all-important summit clash.
"I think my game is coming up well and I'm enjoying it. I live for special moments like this and want to do well in big moments. When the crowd gets behind me, it becomes special and I'm happy I did well tonight," said the pacer.
Lee said 130-140 would have been a defendable total in the final, and getting to the 160-mark was a bonus.
"I was trying to closely watch the balls. I knew if I stuck around we'd get some runs. We aimed at 130-140 but got 160 on the board which was quite defendable," said the pacer.
Overall, Lee said, it was a great experience and thanked T&T for their splendid performance in the tournament.
"I've thoroughly enjoyed it. Thanks to T&T and Shukriya to all the fans," he added.
Victorious NSW captain Simon Katich described it as a "very proud moment" but was gracious enough to praise his opponents.
"It's a very proud moment. Congratulations to T&T, who showed what they're worth. Thanks for a great final," he said.
Crediting Lee and Steven Smith, who hit a defiant 33, for propping up the side, Katich said the team raised its game when defending the total.
"Brett Lee and Steven Smith were great with the bat and then everyone chipped in. We created opportunities and the guys fielded brilliantly.
"The opportunity to play on the world stage has been fantastic. It's been invaluable for the young guys," he said.
T&T skipper Daren Ganga conceded NSW played better cricket but was proud of his own team's show.
"It was a good run for us and all credit to NSW. We cracked under pressure. A lot people are disappointed but that is how it goes," Ganga said.
"A lot of people back home are proud of us. Thanks to the Indian fans for supporting us. We have memories of the support and the fans and this will make a huge difference to the guys, and will inspire many players back in the Caribbean," he added.
Champions League commissioner Lalit Modi also thanked the teams and crowds, but was tight-lipped when asked where the second edition of the Champions League would be held.
"The Governing Council will meet in December to decide that," he said.
NSW pocketed a whopping US $2.5 million for winning the tournament, while T&T were richer by US $1.3 million.
Losing semi-finalists Victoria Bushrangers and Cape Cobras earned a cool US $500,000 each.
