The ICC Champions Trophy has long been one of the most thrilling cricket tournaments in the world. Known for its short format and high stakes, the tournament has produced numerous memorable clashes and dramatic finishes that have captivated cricket fans globally. From thrilling last-ball victories to extraordinary individual performances, the ICC Champions Trophy has created some of the most unforgettable moments in cricket history. As we look forward to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, it’s only fitting to reflect on some of the greatest clashes in the tournament’s history. These matches have not only showcased the best of international cricket but have also fueled fierce rivalries, producing exhilarating matches that remain etched in the minds of fans worldwide.
India vs Pakistan Final (2017): A Clash for the Ages
1- India Vs Pakistan Final (2017)
When it comes to rivalries in cricket tournaments, the India vs Pakistan encounter in the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy final stands out as one of the most iconic. This high-pressure final saw India, the defending champions, face off against Pakistan, a team that had surprised everyone with its stunning run to the final. The Match: Pakistan, led by Sarfraz Ahmed, posted a commanding total of 338/4 in their 50 overs, thanks to a spectacular knock by Fakhar Zaman, who scored a brilliant 114. India, chasing the target, were outclassed by Pakistan’s bowlers, with Mohammad Amir leading the charge, taking three crucial wickets, including the prized scalps of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. India was bowled out for just 158, giving Pakistan a historic 180-run victory. This victory marked Pakistan’s first-ever ICC Champions Trophy win and was a moment of redemption for the team, who had been written off at the start of the tournament. Fakhar Zaman's century, coupled with a brilliant bowling display, ensured that the final would go down as one of the most memorable moments in Champions Trophy history.
Fakhar Zaman’s Century in 2017: A Defining Moment
1- A Defining Moment
The 2017 ICC Champions Trophy final was made even more special by Fakhar Zaman’s century. His 114 off 106 balls was a masterclass in batting under pressure. Coming in at the top of the order, Zaman weathered an early life when he was dropped, but made the most of his second chance, playing a key role in Pakistan’s massive total. His century not only set the tone for Pakistan’s innings but also marked him as one of the most memorable players in the history of the tournament. Zaman’s performance remains one of the best individual contributions in a Champions Trophy final and was a turning point in his career, as he cemented his place in Pakistan’s cricketing history.
Shane Watson’s Unbeaten Century in 2009: Australia’s Comeback Victory
1- Australia’s Comeback Victory
In the 2009 ICC Champions Trophy, one of the most memorable performances came from Australia’s Shane Watson. In a must-win match against West Indies, Watson played a remarkable innings to lead Australia to victory. The Match: Australia was set a target of 270 by the West Indies, and it was a pressure-filled chase that required someone to step up. Shane Watson took on the responsibility, playing a composed and aggressive knock. His unbeaten 105 guided Australia to a six-wicket victory, and his century ensured that they were able to recover from a tricky situation. Watson’s performance helped Australia remain in contention for the tournament and highlighted his ability to perform in high-stakes matches. This century remains one of the most memorable in ICC Champions Trophy history, demonstrating Watson’s resilience and ability to deliver under pressure.
India vs Sri Lanka (2002): A Classic Semi-final
1- A Classic Semi-final
One of the most thrilling encounters in ICC Champions Trophy history took place during the 2002 semi-final between India and Sri Lanka. The match had all the drama that cricket fans crave – high-pressure moments, exciting finishes, and star performances. The Match: Sri Lanka posted a challenging total of 245 in their 50 overs, and India was set to chase the target in the semi-final. With wickets falling at regular intervals, India was in danger of missing out on the final, but the ever-reliable Sourav Ganguly played a crucial knock, taking India to the brink of victory. The match came down to the wire, with India needing a big finish to secure the win. In the end, India managed to cross the line, but not before the match had kept fans on the edge of their seats. This contest remains a classic example of a thrilling semi-final in ICC tournaments, with plenty of drama, turning points, and remarkable performances.
Comeback Victories in ICC Champions Trophy
1- Comeback Victories
The ICC Champions Trophy has witnessed several comeback victories, where teams have managed to chase down seemingly impossible targets or pull off last-minute victories with spectacular performances. These comeback wins have made the tournament one of the most exciting in world cricket, as no team is ever completely out of the contest until the final ball. One of the most memorable comebacks came in the 2004 ICC Champions Trophy, when West Indies staged a thrilling chase against England. West Indies were set a daunting target, but with Chris Gayle and Brian Lara at the crease, the team managed to pull off an incredible victory, with the match culminating in a dramatic finish.
Historic Cricket Moments in ICC Champions Trophy
1- Historic Cricket Moments
The ICC Champions Trophy has also been a stage for some of the most historic cricket moments. Whether it was Australia's domination in the early years of the tournament or India’s dominance in 2013, the Champions Trophy has consistently showcased the best cricketing moments. Some of the standout moments in ICC Champions Trophy history include Michael Clarke’s brilliant century against India in 2009, Virat Kohli’s sensational knock in the 2013 final, and the dramatic final overs of the 2017 tournament where Pakistan pulled off a huge upset.
Key Notes
Thrilling Finishes in Cricket: The Legacy of ICC Champions Trophy The ICC Champions Trophy has always been synonymous with thrilling finishes in cricket. Whether it’s a last-ball victory, a dramatic run chase, or a sensational bowling performance, the tournament has provided fans with countless moments of excitement. Each edition of the Champions Trophy has had its share of unforgettable matches, where teams have fought tooth and nail to clinch the trophy. In conclusion, the ICC Champions Trophy has always been more than just a tournament; it has been a showcase of the most thrilling moments in cricket. From Fakhar Zaman’s memorable century in 2017 to Shane Watson’s unbeaten century in 2009, the Champions Trophy has produced some of the most exciting and historic matches in the history of the sport. With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on the horizon, cricket fans can look forward to even more thrilling encounters, star perf