Top Five Thrilling Matches in ICC Champions Trophy History

 



The ICC Champions Trophy, which began in 1998, has often been referred to as the "Mini ODI World Cup." Over the years, this tournament has produced some unforgettable cricketing moments. Here’s a look at five of the most thrilling encounters in Champions Trophy history.

1. India vs South Africa (Semi-final, 2002)

While Virender Sehwag was known for his explosive batting, it was his off-spin that turned the game in this semi-final against South Africa. India, batting first, posted 261/9, thanks to Sehwag’s 59 and Yuvraj Singh’s 62. In response, South Africa looked set for victory as Herschelle Gibbs (116) and Jacques Kallis (97) built a strong foundation. However, Gibbs' retirement due to injury triggered a collapse. Sehwag’s crucial wickets, including those of Kallis, Mark Boucher, and Lance Klusener, swung the game in India’s favor. From a commanding position at 191/1, South Africa fell short at 251/6, handing India a 10-run win. The final against Sri Lanka was unfortunately washed out, leading to both teams being declared joint winners.

2. England vs West Indies (Final, 2004)

The 2004 Champions Trophy final at The Oval saw England on the verge of winning their first ICC title. Marcus Trescothick’s brilliant 104 helped England set a target of 218. Their bowlers then dominated, reducing West Indies to 147/8, making an England victory seem inevitable. However, a stunning 71-run unbeaten partnership for the ninth wicket between Courtney Browne (35*) and Ian Bradshaw (35*) turned the match on its head. West Indies completed a dramatic chase with seven balls to spare, securing one of the most memorable wins in Champions Trophy history.

3. South Africa vs England (Group Stage, 2009)

In a high-scoring contest at Centurion, England posted a massive 323/8, powered by Owais Shah’s 98, Paul Collingwood’s 82, and Eoin Morgan’s 67. South Africa’s response was led by captain Graeme Smith, who played a valiant knock of 141. Despite his heroics, the Proteas fell short, finishing at 301/9, handing England a 22-run victory. The bowling efforts of James Anderson and Stuart Broad, both claiming three wickets each, proved crucial in ensuring England's progression to the knockout stage.

4. New Zealand vs Sri Lanka (2013)

A low-scoring thriller in Cardiff tested both teams’ resilience. Sri Lanka, opting to bat first, were bundled out for just 138, with Kumar Sangakkara’s gritty 68 being the only saving grace. New Zealand’s Mitchell McClenaghan wreaked havoc with 4/43. Despite the modest target, the Kiwis found themselves in deep trouble at 80/6. However, a composed 32 from Nathan McCullum guided them home with just one wicket remaining, making it one of the most nail-biting finishes in the tournament’s history.


5. India vs England (Final, 2013)

The 2013 Champions Trophy final was heavily affected by rain, reducing the match to a 20-over contest. Batting first, India struggled, posting only 129/7. Virat Kohli (43), Shikhar Dhawan (31), and Ravindra Jadeja (33*) were the only notable contributors, while England’s bowlers kept them in check.

Chasing 130, England lost early wickets and were reeling at 46/4 by the ninth over. However, Eoin Morgan (33) and Ravi Bopara (30) steadied the innings, bringing England close to victory at 110/4 in the 18th over. Just when it seemed England would lift their first ICC trophy, Ishant Sharma turned the game around, dismissing both Morgan and Bopara in the same over. A flurry of wickets followed, and England could only manage 124/8, handing India a thrilling 5-run victory and the Champions Trophy title.

These five encounters stand as a testament to the unpredictable and exhilarating nature of the ICC Champions Trophy, making it one of cricket’s most cherished tournaments.


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