Published By: Sayan Guha

Champions Trophy: Here’s Our Ultimate India XI – The Greatest Line-Up of All Time

From fearless openers to lethal bowlers, here’s the dream team that ruled the Champions Trophy for India!

India's journey through the ICC Champions Trophy has been nothing short of remarkable. Having competed in every edition, the Men in Blue have lifted the esteemed trophy twice: in 2002 (shared with Sri Lanka) and in 2013. They have also come agonisingly close, finishing as runners-up in 2000 and 2017.

With 18 victories in 28 matches, India has established itself as a formidable force in this tournament. But who deserves a place in the ultimate Champions Trophy XI? Let us explore our dream XI!

Shikhar Dhawan

The best Champions Trophy batter for India! Dhawan has scored the most runs by an Indian in the tournament, amassing 701 runs in just 10 innings at an impressive average of 77.88. His fluid stroke play and tendency for lengthy innings enabled him to score three centuries, including a magnificent 125. He was India's backbone at the top, ensuring quick starts.

Sourav Ganguly (Captain)

Dada knows how to lead from the front! Ganguly was a maestro of ICC tournaments, and he was instrumental in India's 2000 and 2002 campaigns, scoring the second-most runs for India in tournament history (665). His blazing 141* against South Africa is still one of the most memorable innings in Champions Trophy history. India co-won the 2002 Champions Trophy under his guidance, so we picked him as captain.

Sachin Tendulkar

The Little Master excelled on the grand stage, and the Champions Trophy was no exception. Sachin scored 441 runs, including an impressive 141. However, he was not just about the bat; his golden arm contributed to India capturing 14 wickets, making him the tournament's third-highest Indian wicket-taker. A true game-changer!

Virat Kohli

When it comes to consistency, Virat Kohli stands out. Kohli delivered when it mattered most, scoring 529 runs at an astonishing average of 88.16. His ability to anchor innings and finish matches made him India's go-to player in high-pressure situations.

Rahul Dravid

Rahul Dravid adapted admirably to various positions, even donning the wicketkeeper's gloves for the squad. He is India's third-highest run-scorer in the Champions Trophy (627 runs), delivering crucial blows under pressure. His ability to keep the innings together rendered him indispensable.

Yuvraj Singh

Yuvraj, a match-winner in every sense, added considerable firepower to India's middle order. He scored 376 runs at an impressive strike rate of 86.43, establishing himself as a formidable asset in critical matches. Yuvi made a significant impact with both the bat and his outstanding left-arm spin.

Ravindra Jadeja

Jadeja, India's leading wicket-taker in Champions Trophy history, poses a significant bowling threat, taking 16 wickets at an economy rate of only 4.85. He also made valuable contributions with the bat, notably scoring a memorable 47* against South Africa in 2013. His five-wicket haul of 5/36 remains one of the finest performances by an Indian in the tournament.

Harbhajan Singh

Harbhajan was India's premier spinner throughout Champions Trophy history, consistently disrupting crucial partnerships. The Turbanator played a significant role in containing opponents on difficult pitches, claiming 14 wickets at an economy rate of less than four.

Ishant Sharma

Ishant Sharma, frequently overlooked, rose to the occasion when it mattered most. His 13 wickets were among India's most crucial breakthroughs, and his knack for inducing bounce baffled many elite batsmen. His performance in the 2013 final played a significant role in India's triumph.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar

Bhuvi was a maestro of the new ball, swinging it both ways and keeping batters guessing. In tournament history, he took 13 wickets at an impressive economy rate of 4.30, frequently setting the tone for India with early breakthroughs.

Zaheer Khan

Zaheer was India's spearhead in pace bowling during the early 2000s, and his 15 wickets in just nine matches showcase his efficiency. His ability to swing the ball both ways and take wickets at crucial moments makes him one of India's most formidable pacers in ICC competitions.