Without the Cup which they won in 2011, yes, but as heroes nevertheless.
India clearly lost to a team that played better cricket on the day.
Even broken hearts can't hide the fact that Dhoni's Devils played superior cricket all through the tournament -- evident from the fact that till their semi-final loss, they had been unbeaten all the way.
True heroes, they deserve our unstinting applause.
Welcome the Boys in Blue with a show of hands. Applaud the Indian cricket team!
What it was like at the Sydney Cricket Ground
Prem Panicker: At the end, you felt for Dhoni
BCCI president lauds Team India's 'stupendous' performance
World Cup Report Card: Full marks for India's bowlers
PHOTOS: Blues overpowered Golds at SCG, but it wasn't enough!