India's Champions Trophy history is filled with legendary performances, and these players have etched their names in the tournament's records
The ICC Champions Trophy, once known as the "mini World Cup," remains one of the most prestigious tournaments in ODI cricket. The latest edition is set to begin on February 19, with PAK as the original host. However, India will play their matches in Dubai. Over the years, India's journey in the Champions Trophy has been filled with thrilling highs and crushing lows. The Men in Blue have had a rollercoaster ride from lifting the trophy in 2013 to enduring heartbreak in the 2017 final.
CHAMPIONS TROPHY 2025 SCHEDULE...
— Beg Tousif Ahmed (@BegTousif2010) February 5, 2025
Group A - PAK,IND,NZ AND BAN
Group B - SA,AUS,AFG AND ENG
- All the matches to start from 2.30pm IST.
- Dubai will host India's matches.
- Dubai will host Semi Final 1.
- Dubai will host the Final if India qualifies, Lahore.#ChampionsTrophy2025 pic.twitter.com/TClfpHAa8Y
Among the many greats who have represented India in the tournament, a few players stand out as the best of all time. Look at India's top scorer and wicket-taker in Champions Trophy history.
Shikhar Dhawan, fondly known as 'Gabbar,' has been a phenomenon in the Champions Trophy. Amassing 701 runs in just 10 matches, he remains India's highest run-getter in the tournament. His astounding average of 77.88 reflects his dominance on the big stage.
Dhawan's highest score of 125 showcased his aggressive yet calculated approach. He was instrumental in India's title-winning campaign in 2013, finishing as the Player of the Tournament with 363 runs in five matches at an unbelievable average of 90.75. His first-ever international century came in the tournament—a fluent 114 off just 94 balls, setting the tone for India's successful campaign under MS Dhoni.
Sourav Ganguly, one of India's most charismatic leaders, left an indelible mark on the Champions Trophy. He scored 665 runs in 13 matches and is India's second-highest run-scorer in the tournament's history. 'Dada' was known for his fearless approach, and his highest score of 141* was a testament to his aggressive style.
A defining moment in Ganguly's Champions Trophy career came in the 2000 edition. In the semi-final against South Africa, he smashed an unbeaten 141 off 142 balls, single-handedly setting up India's victory.
Rahul Dravid, known for his rock-solid technique and immense patience, was another key figure for India in the Champions Trophy. He accumulated 627 runs in 19 matches at an impressive average of 48.23. While he never reached the three-figure mark, his highest score of 67 underlined his ability to anchor the innings and absorb pressure.
Regarding bowling, Ravindra Jadeja is India's leading wicket-taker in the Champions Trophy. With 16 wickets from nine matches at an economy of 4.85, he played a pivotal role in India's success.
Jadeja was at his best in 2013, scalping 12 wickets in five matches to help India lift the trophy. His best performance came against the West Indies, where he returned with figures of 5/36, dismantling the Caribbean batting lineup. Dhoni's tactical move to bring him in early paid off as Jadeja spun a web around the batters. His fifer in that match remains his only five-wicket haul in ODIs, but it was a career-defining spell that solidified his place in the Indian team.
Zaheer Khan, one of India's finest fast bowlers, had a substantial impact on the Champions Trophy. He played nine matches and claimed 15 wickets at an economy rate of 4.60. His ability to swing the ball both ways made him a nightmare for opposition batters.
One of his most memorable performances came against Zimbabwe in the group stage. India had set a daunting target of 289, but Andy Flower's counter-attack threatened to take the game away in 2002. Zaheer's brilliance with the ball ensured that didn't happen. He picked up 4/45, curbing Zimbabwe's chase and securing a crucial win for India.
While Sachin Tendulkar is renowned for his batting, his contributions to the ball in the Champions Trophy are often overlooked. Across 11 bowling innings, he picked up 14 wickets at an economy of 4.73. His best spell came in the 1998 edition against Australia, where he registered figures of 4/38.
In a match that saw him dismiss senior Waugh, the dependable Michael Bevan, Damien Martyn, and Brad Young, Tendulkar once again proved his all-round brilliance. His performance led India into the semi-finals, ultimately falling short against the West Indies.
