Published By: Sanchari Das

Champions Trophy: Major Controversies That Have Marred the Tourney

When controversies stole the spotlight: The most talked-about scandals in Champions Trophy history

The ICC Champions Trophy has always been a high-profile event. The competition has had a World Cup-like intensity since its early days as the ICC Knockout Tournament. The best teams battle for supremacy, making it one of the most thrilling limited-overs tournaments. However, like any major sporting event, the Champions Trophy has not been free from controversies. Some have been bitter, while others have been downright bizarre. With the 2025 edition just around the corner, let's revisit some of the biggest controversies that have rocked the tournament over the years.

The 2025 hosting drama

One of the most heated disputes in the Champions Trophy's history unfolded in the lead-up to the 2025 edition. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the PAK Cricket Board (PCB) clashed over the hosting rights, leading to months of uncertainty. The BCCI refused to send its team to PAK, citing security concerns, while the PCB stood firm, insisting it would be the sole host.

After prolonged negotiations, a compromise was reached—India would play all its matches in the UAE under a hybrid model. However, fresh controversy erupted when the BCCI unveiled Team India's jersey for the tournament. The design did not mention PAK as a co-host, leaving the PCB outraged. The dispute mirrored a similar arrangement made during the 2023 Asia Cup, where PAK was technically the host, but Sri Lanka co-hosted several matches. The 2025 Champions Trophy marks PAK's first ICC event in nearly three decades, making the controversy even more significant.

When Australia's trophy celebration turned into an international incident 

One of the most infamous moments in Champions Trophy history occurred during the 2006 final. Australia had just won their maiden title, defeating the West Indies in Mumbai. In the post-match presentation, an eager Ricky Ponting signalled to Indian politician and then BCCI president Sharad Pawar to hand over the trophy quickly. Moments later, Damien Martyn nudged Pawar off the stage to make room for the team's celebrations.

The incident sparked outrage in India. Cricket legends like Sunil Gavaskar and Dilip Vengsarkar criticised the Australians' behaviour, calling it disrespectful. Even Sachin Tendulkar, known for avoiding controversies, found the incident unpleasant. The Indian media slammed the Australian team for their arrogance, while Pawar initially downplayed it as a "stupid thing" before later labelling it "uncivilised." Under pressure, Ponting eventually apologised.

Strauss denies Smith a runner (2009)

The 2009 edition saw an unusual controversy involving sportsmanship. South Africa, chasing 324 against England in a must-win game, had their hopes pinned on captain Graeme Smith, leading from the front with a brilliant knock. However, as the innings progressed, he suffered severe cramps. When Smith requested a runner, England captain Andrew Strauss flatly refused.


Strauss argued that cramps were a natural part of the game and did not warrant a runner. The umpires did not intervene, and Smith had to push through the pain. South Africa eventually fell short by 22 runs, crashing out of the tournament despite Smith's valiant 141. The decision sparked debate, with many calling it unsporting. The controversy left a bitter taste, especially for South African fans who felt their captain had been denied fair treatment.

A rain-shortened final

The 2013 Champions Trophy final between India and England became bizarre due to rain. Originally a 50-over contest, persistent showers reduced the match to a 20-over shootout. The decision baffled fans and experts alike. A premier ODI tournament had its title decided by a T20-style game, raising questions about the ICC's scheduling.


The lack of a reserve day for the final was widely criticised. Given the importance of the match, many felt it was unfair to settle the trophy in a format different from what the teams had played throughout the tournament. Despite the chaotic circumstances, India held their nerve to win, but the controversy remained a stain on an otherwise thrilling competition.