Chasing a big target in an ICC ODI final is always a challenge. Only the best teams manage to do it under pressure. Over the years, some teams have successfully chased tough scores in crucial ICC tournament finals. Below are the highest successful run chases in ICC ODI event finals.
4. South Africa (248/6) vs West Indies – ICC Champions Trophy Final 1998
South Africa successfully chased 248 runs against West Indies in the final of the 1998 ICC Champions Trophy in Dhaka. West Indies scored 245 in 49.3 overs, with Philo Wallace hitting 103 runs. South African bowler Jacques Kallis took five wickets, restricting the Caribbean side.
In response, Hansie Cronje remained unbeaten on 61, while Mike Rindel contributed 49 runs. South Africa reached the target in 47 overs with six wickets in hand, securing their first-ever ICC title.
3. India (254/6) vs New Zealand – ICC Champions Trophy Final 2025
In the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy final, India chased down 254 runs against New Zealand at Dubai International Cricket Stadium. New Zealand set a target of 251 in 50 overs, with Daryl Mitchell scoring 63 and Michael Bracewell adding 53.
India’s captain Rohit Sharma led from the front with 76 runs, while Shreyas Iyer (48) and KL Rahul (34 not out) played crucial roles. India won the match with six balls to spare, securing their third ICC Champions Trophy title and seventh overall ICC trophy.
2. New Zealand (265/6) vs India – ICC Knockout Final 2000
New Zealand pulled off a thrilling chase against India in the ICC Knockout Final 2000 in Nairobi. India, batting first, posted 264 runs, thanks to a brilliant 117 from Sourav Ganguly and 69 from Sachin Tendulkar.
Despite losing two wickets early, Chris Cairns played a match-winning knock of 102 not out, while Chris Harris contributed 46 runs. New Zealand reached the target in the final over, winning their first ICC title ever.
1. India (277/4) vs Sri Lanka – ICC Cricket World Cup Final 2011
India holds the record for the highest successful run chase in an ICC ODI final. In the 2011 World Cup final at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, Sri Lanka set a tough target of 275. Mahela Jayawardene’s unbeaten 103 and Kumar Sangakkara’s 48 helped Sri Lanka post a competitive score.
India lost Sachin Tendulkar and Virender Sehwag early, but Gautam Gambhir (97) and MS Dhoni (91 not out) guided the chase. Dhoni sealed the victory with a famous six in the 49th over, as India lifted their second Cricket World Cup with six wickets and ten balls remaining.
These historic run chases prove that pressure, skill, and determination are crucial in ICC finals. India, New Zealand, and South Africa have all showcased their ability to handle big moments and chase down challenging scores. The 2011 World Cup final remains the highest run chase ever achieved in an ICC ODI final, marking an iconic moment in cricket history.
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