MS Dhoni lifting the trophy in 2013

The ICC Champions Trophy has given cricket fans unforgettable matches and performances. Over the years, it has become a stage for players to showcase their talent and determination. Let’s explore the top five memorable editions of this thrilling tournament.

  • The ICC Champions Trophy highlights cricket’s unpredictability and excitement.
  • Each tournament has brought unique and historical moments to the sport.

Top 5 Most Memorable ICC Champions Trophy Editions

YearWinnerHighlight
1998South AfricaFirst ICC trophy and Kallis’s brilliance
2002India, Sri LankaShared title after rain-affected final
2004West IndiesStunning comeback in the final
2013IndiaMS Dhoni’s unique triple crown
2017PakistanRedemption and a massive win over India

1998 – South Africa’s Historic Win

South Africa’s ICC Champions Trophy Victory in 1998

The first ICC Champions Trophy, known as the ICC KnockOut Trophy, was held in Bangladesh. It marked a turning point for cricket in developing nations.

  • South Africa lifted their first-ever ICC trophy, beating the West Indies in the final.
  • Jacques Kallis starred with both bat and ball, earning Player of the Tournament honors.
  • The knockout format debuted, adding high stakes to every match.

This inaugural edition laid the groundwork for the tournament’s future as a global event.

2002 – The Shared Trophy

2002 ICC Champions Trophy: A Shared Victory with Sri Lanka

The 2002 ICC Champions Trophy, held in Sri Lanka, had a unique and dramatic finish.

  • The final between India and Sri Lanka was washed out twice due to heavy rain.
  • Both teams were declared co-winners, a rare occurrence in cricket history.
  • Fans still remember Virender Sehwag’s explosive batting and Muttiah Muralitharan’s magical bowling.

This edition highlighted the need for better rain management, influencing future tournament policies.

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2004 – West Indies’ Astonishing Comeback

The 2004 tournament in England witnessed one of cricket’s greatest underdog victories.

  • West Indies, led by Brian Lara, triumphed over England in a thrilling final.
  • Chasing 218, they were struggling at 147/8 before a 71-run partnership between Courtney Browne and Ian Bradshaw secured victory.
  • This unexpected win revived interest in West Indies cricket, showcasing the sport’s unpredictability.

Fans still cherish this moment as an example of perseverance and teamwork.

2013 – India’s Perfect Campaign

MS Dhoni lifting the trophy in 2013

India dominated the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy in England and Wales, remaining unbeaten throughout.

  • Under MS Dhoni’s leadership, India defended a modest total of 129 in the final against England.
  • Ishant Sharma’s crucial over turned the tide in a rain-affected match.
  • Dhoni became the first captain to win all major ICC trophies, solidifying his legendary status.

This victory exemplified strategic brilliance and India’s rise as a cricketing powerhouse.

2017 – Pakistan’s Stunning Redemption

Fakhar Zaman

Pakistan’s triumph in the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy remains one of the tournament’s most inspiring stories.

  • Entering as the lowest-ranked team, Pakistan overcame all odds to lift the trophy.
  • They defeated arch-rivals India in the final by a massive 180 runs.
  • Fakhar Zaman’s century and Mohammad Amir’s lethal bowling were pivotal in the victory.

This edition proved that rankings mean little in the face of determination and teamwork.

A Tournament Etched in History

The ICC Champions Trophy has carved a special place in cricket’s history. Each edition tells a unique story, from dramatic rain-affected matches to incredible underdog victories.

Notable Features of the Tournament:

  • Shared Glory: The only ICC event with co-winners (2002).
  • Breakthrough Performances: Players like Jacques Kallis and Fakhar Zaman shone brightest.
  • Unpredictability: Cricket’s essence captured in every game.
  • Top ICC Champions Trophy Moments
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These memories continue to inspire players and fans alike, underscoring the importance of resilience and sportsmanship.


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