The ICC Champions Trophy, often dubbed the ‘Mini World Cup,’ has been a stage for some of the most exhilarating moments in One Day International (ODI) cricket. Launched in 1998 to expand the sport’s global reach, the tournament quickly gained prestige, featuring the world’s top teams battling for glory. Although the last edition took place in 2017, the Champions Trophy remains a significant part of cricket’s rich history, and with its return in 2025, excitement is once again building among fans.
1998 – South Africa
The inaugural edition, held in Bangladesh, saw South Africa claim their first ICC trophy under Hansie Cronje’s captaincy. The Proteas chased down the West Indies’ 246-run target, with Jacques Kallis delivering a match-winning all-round performance, taking 5/30 with the ball.
2000 – New Zealand
Kenya hosted the second edition, where New Zealand clinched their first major ICC title. Chris Cairns played an unforgettable knock of 102* off 113 balls to help the Kiwis chase down India’s 265, securing a thrilling 4-wicket victory.
2002 – India and Sri Lanka (Joint Winners)
Rain played spoilsport in the Colombo final, forcing both India and Sri Lanka to share the title. Despite standout performances from Virender Sehwag and Muttiah Muralitharan, the weather ensured no clear winner emerged.
2004 – West Indies
In a dramatic final in England, West Indies scripted an incredible comeback against the hosts. Chasing 218, they were tottering at 147/8 before Courtney Browne and Ian Bradshaw’s match-winning partnership saw them home by 2 wickets.
2006 – Australia
Australia, under Ricky Ponting’s leadership, dominated the 2006 edition in India. A clinical all-round display saw them crush West Indies in the final, restricting them to 138 before winning by 8 wickets.
2009 – Australia
The Aussies defended their title in South Africa, becoming the first team to win back-to-back Champions Trophy titles. Shane Watson’s brilliant 105* led them to a comfortable chase of 201 against New Zealand in the final.
2013 – India
Led by MS Dhoni, India emerged victorious in England, winning a thrilling rain-shortened final against the hosts. England needed 130 in 20 overs but fell short by 5 runs, with Ravindra Jadeja’s heroics (33* & 2/24) proving decisive.
2017 – Pakistan
Pakistan stunned cricketing giants with a dominant campaign in England. In the final against India, Fakhar Zaman’s brilliant 114 off 106 balls powered them to 338/4, while Hasan Ali’s 3/19 helped dismantle India for just 158, securing a 180-run victory.
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 – The Return of the
Prestigious Tournament
After an eight-year gap, the Champions Trophy is making a grand return in 2025. Pakistan has been chosen as the host nation, marking a major milestone as the country welcomes a global ICC event for the first time since 1996. With the world’s top eight ODI teams set to compete, the tournament is expected to reignite the excitement of 50-over cricket, promising intense rivalries, electrifying performances, and new cricketing legends in the making.