The ICC Champions Trophy is often called”the “Mini World Cup,” is a prestigious One Day International (ODI) cricket tournament that is organized through the International Cricket Council (ICC). It was first introduced in 1998 under the name of The ICC KnockOut Trophy, the tournament was rebranded to The Champions Trophy in 2002. Over the years, the tournament has been a spectacle of thrilling cricket featuring top teams from all over the globe competing for the sought-after title.
ICC Champions Trophy Winners and Runners-up
Below is a comprehensive table that lists the runners-up, winners, and the locations of each of the editions of ICC Champions Trophy:
| Year | Host Nation(s) | Winner(s) | Runner-up | Venue(s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1998 | Bangladesh | South Africa | West Indies | Dhaka |
| 2000 | Kenya | New Zealand | India | Nairobi |
| 2002 | Sri Lanka | India and Sri Lanka | Joint Winners | Colombo |
| 2004 | England | West Indies | England | London, Birmingham, Southampton |
| 2006 | India | Australia | West Indies | Mumbai, Jaipur, Mohali |
| 2009 | South Africa | Australia | New Zealand | Johannesburg, Centurion |
| 2013 | England and Wales | India | England | Birmingham, Cardiff, London |
| 2017 | England and Wales | Pakistan | India | London, Birmingham, Cardiff |
| 2025 | Pakistan and UAE | India | New Zealand | Lahore, Karachi, Rawalpindi, Dubai |
ICC Champions Trophy 1998 – South Africa’s Triumph
The first ICC KnockOut Trophy took place in Dhaka, Bangladesh, featuring nine teams. South Africa clinched the title by beating their counterparts from the West Indies in the final. With a goal of 245 in the final, the Proteas scored 248/6 in just 47 overs including Hansie Cronje leading the side to victory.
ICC Champions Trophy 2000 – New Zealand’s Maiden ICC Title
The event was held in Nairobi, Kenya, the 2000 edition featured 11 teams competing. The final was a rush of adrenaline New Zealand overcame India, taking 264 wickets with four wickets left due to Chris Cairns’ unbeaten century.
ICC Champions Trophy 2002 – Shared Glory for India and Sri Lanka
The event held in Sri Lanka ended with India and the host nation crowned joint winners following that final game was washed away on both the scheduled day as well as on the day of reserve. Both teams were superb throughout the tournament, however the weather was not ideal and prevented a definitive final.
ICC Champions Trophy 2004 – West Indies’ Remarkable Comeback
England hosted the 2004 tournament, and they West Indies secured a memorable victory over the hosts. In pursuit of 217 points, The West Indies were in a difficult position with 147/8 however, a strong team of Courtney Browne and Ian Bradshaw helped them win by two wickets. victory.
ICC Champions Trophy 2006 – Australia’s Dominance
In 2006, the tournament held in India saw Australia’s dominance in the final as they beat India’s West Indies in the final. With a goal of 133, Australia comfortably chased it down, with eight wickets left with plenty of time left, which was their debut Champions Trophy win.
ICC Champions Trophy 2009 – Australia’s Title Defense
South Africa hosted the 2009 tournament, and Australia displayed their supremacy by securing the title. They swept aside New Zealand in the final by chasing 200 in a breeze with a strong batsmanship.
ICC Champions Trophy 2013 – India’s Unbeaten Run
In 2013, the Champions Trophy in England and Wales was a success with India win, while maintaining an unbeaten record throughout the competition. In a rain-hit final match against England, India defended a small 129 runs in a 20-over contest and won by just five wickets under the guidance that of MS Dhoni.
ICC Champions Trophy 2017 – Pakistan’s Resurgence
In 2017, the 2017 tournament, which was also situated in England and Wales was highlighted by Pakistan’s incredible journey. After a loss in the first round however, they rebounded to make it to the final against the arch-rivals India. In an impressive performance, Pakistan posted 338/4 and defeated India with 158 runs, winning an 180-run win in their debut Champions Trophy title.
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 – Unstoppable India
The ICC Champions Trophy is set to return in 2025 along with Pakistan as well as the United Arab Emirates co-hosting the event. India won its 3rd ICC Champions Trophy title on March 9, 2025 in Dubai by defeating New Zealand in a thrilling final. This win is what makes India one of the top teams of the tournament’s history, beating Australia’s two wins. In the tournament, India showcased dominance, winning every match at the UAE. Highlights included Shubman Gill’s unbeaten 100 in the match against Bangladesh as well as Virat Kohli’s impressive 100* against Pakistan. In the semi-finals Kohli’s crucial 84 helped India ahead of Australia. New Zealand, despite their ability to fight, failed in the final. The notable contributions from Rachin Ravindra, who was the most prolific run-scorer in the tournament with 263 runs.
Conclusion
The ICC Champions Trophy has provided cricketers with memorable moments and demonstrated the strength of the world’s most renowned cricketing nations. As the tournament gets ready for its 2025 edition the legacy of former winners continues to motivate and enhance the spirit of the game.
