Most Iconic Matches in Champions Trophy History
The Champions Trophy has always been a tournament that delivers thrilling encounters, nail-biting finishes, and unforgettable moments. Over the years, cricket fans have witnessed some of the most iconic matches in Champions Trophy history, featuring extraordinary performances, last-over finishes, and unexpected upsets. In this blog, we take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the greatest clashes ever played in the tournament's history. 1. India vs England – 2013 Final (The Rain-Affected Thriller) The 2013 Champions Trophy Final between India and England was a dramatic encounter that had fans on the edge of their seats. Due to rain, the match was reduced to 20 overs per side, making it a high-intensity contest. Batting first, India posted 129/7, with Virat Kohli (43) and Ravindra Jadeja (33)* playing crucial roles. In response, England looked comfortable at one stage but collapsed under pressure, thanks to Ishant Sharma's crucial wickets. With 15 runs needed off the last over, England fell short, and India won by 5 runs, clinching their second Champions Trophy title. This match remains one of the most iconic matches in Champions Trophy history, as it was MS Dhoni's only ICC Trophy win as a captain in England, making him the first skipper to win all major ICC trophies. 2. South Africa vs West Indies – 1998 Final (The Inaugural Triumph) The 1998 Champions Trophy Final was special, as it was the first edition of the tournament. South Africa and West Indies faced off in a historic clash, with both teams eager to claim the title. West Indies, led by Brian Lara, posted 245/6, with Lara himself scoring a brilliant 65 runs. However, South Africa's Jacques Kallis produced a magical all-round performance, picking up 5 wickets and then scoring a steady 37 runs. With Hansie Cronje's 61 guiding* the team, South Africa comfortably won by 4 wickets, marking their first-ever ICC trophy win. Check Out:- https://www.icecric.news/gg-w-vs-rcb-w-dream11-prediction-wpl/ 3. Pakistan vs India – 2017 Final (Pakistan's Redemption Story) One of the most iconic matches in Champions Trophy history was the 2017 Final between India and Pakistan. The stakes were high, with both arch-rivals facing off in a high-pressure contest at The Oval. Pakistan, who were the underdogs, produced a dream performance. Fakhar Zaman's 114 powered Pakistan to a massive total of 338/4. In reply, India crumbled under Pakistan's fierce bowling attack, with Mohammad Amir dismissing Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Shikhar Dhawan early. India was bowled out for 158, handing Pakistan a stunning 180-run victory, their biggest win in an ICC final. This match not only gave Pakistan their first-ever Champions Trophy title but also proved to be one of the most dominant performances in the tournament's history. 4. Australia vs West Indies – 2006 Final (Rain Drama and a Comeback Win) The 2006 Champions Trophy Final between Australia and West Indies was a battle of the giants. The Windies, led by Brian Lara, set a below-par total of 138 runs after being bowled out by Australia's fearsome bowling attack, led by Glenn McGrath and Nathan Bracken. Rain interrupted play, reducing Australia's target to 116 in 35 overs. West Indies fought back with early wickets, but Shane Watson's all-round brilliance saw Australia chase down the target with 8 wickets in hand, securing their first Champions Trophy title. This match is remembered for Australia's relentless dominance in ICC tournaments, marking the beginning of their Champions Trophy era. 5. England vs South Africa – 2013 (The Semi-Final Rout) One of the most one-sided but memorable matches in Champions Trophy history was the 2013 semi-final between England and South Africa. The Proteas, notorious for their struggles in knockout matches, suffered yet another collapse. Batting first, South Africa was bowled out for 175, with James Anderson's 2/14 setting the tone. England comfortably chased the target, with Jonathan Trott's 82 steering* them to a 7-wicket victory. This match reinforced South Africa's infamous “chokers” tag in ICC tournaments. Conclusion The Champions Trophy has provided cricket fans with unforgettable memories, featuring thrilling last-over finishes, stunning upsets, and dominant performances. From India's 2013 triumph to Pakistan's historic 2017 victory, each edition has had its share of excitement. As we look forward to the return of the Champions Trophy 2025, cricket lovers can only hope for more iconic matches in Champions Trophy history, adding to the tournament's legacy. Which match is your favorite? Let us know in the comments! Check Out:- https://www.icecric.news/gg-w-vs-upw-w-dream11-prediction-wpl/