The ICC Champions Trophy, often referred to as the “Mini World Cup,” has long been a stage for cricketing excellence, where the world’s best teams battle for supremacy in a high-stakes, fast-paced tournament. As the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 draws near, the excitement among cricket fans is palpable. Scheduled to be held in Pakistan and UAE, the tournament promises to deliver a spectacle of thrilling matches, fierce rivalries, and unforgettable performances. Set to commence on February 19, the 2025 edition will feature eight elite cricketing nations divided into two groups: Group A comprising India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and New Zealand, and Group B including Afghanistan, Australia, England, and South Africa.

A global event full of uncertainties and entertainment

The tournament will kick off with a blockbuster clash as hosts Pakistan take on New Zealand in Karachi, setting the tone for what is expected to be a fiercely competitive group stage. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals, with the grand finale scheduled for March 9 in Lahore. However, in a unique twist, if India ??qualify for the final, the venue will shift to Dubai,? adding an extra layer of intrigue to the tournament.

Over the years, the Champions Trophy has been a platform for some of the most breathtaking batting displays in cricket history. From towering sixes to elegant centuries, the tournament has seen batters dominate bowlers in spectacular fashion. As we gear up for the 2025 edition, it’s the perfect time to reflect on some of the most monumental team performances in the history of the Champions Trophy. These high-scoring encounters not only highlight the skill and determination of the batters but also underscore the evolving nature of the game, where aggressive stroke play and calculated ris??ks have become the norm.

Top 5 highest team scores in Champions Trophy history

1. New Zealand’s dominance: 347/4 vs. USA (2004)

In a display of sheer dominance, New Zealand set the benchmark for the highest team total in Champions Trophy history during the 2004 edition. Facing the USA at The Oval, the Kiwis amassed a colossal 347/4 in their 50 overs. With a blistering run rate of 6.94, New Zealand’s batters took the inexperienced American bowling attack to the cleaners. The match ended in a comprehensive victory for New Zealand, showcasing their batting prowess and setting a record?? that still stands tall.

Also READ: Top 5 highest wicket??-takers in the history of Champions Trophy

2. Pakistan’s commanding performance: 338/4 vs. India (2017)

The 2017 Champions Trophy witnessed one of the most memorable clashes between arch-rivals Pakistan and India. In a high-stakes encounter at The Oval, Pakistan posted an imposing 338/4 in their 50 overs. With a run rate of 6.76, the Pakistani batters, led by Fakhar Zaman’s scintillating century, outclassed the Indian bowling attack. This total proved too much for India, as Pakistan? secured a famous victory, eventually going on to win the tournament.

3. India’s power-packed display: 331/7 vs. South Africa (2013)

India showcased their batting might during the 2013 Champions Trophy in a group-stage match against South Africa at Cardiff. The Men in Blue piled up 331/7 in their 50 overs, with a run rate of 6.62. Shikhar Dhawan’s sublime century laid the foundation for India’s massive total, which proved too daunting for the Proteas. India’s emphatic victory in this match was a testament to the??ir dominanc??e in the tournament, which they eventually won.

4. England’s gritty effort: 323/8 vs. South Africa (2009)

In the 2009 Champions Trophy, England delivered a gritty batting performance against South Africa at Centurion. Posting 323/8 in their 50 overs, England’s batters maintained a steady run rate of 6.46. Despite a strong fightback from the Proteas, England’s total proved just enough to secure a ?hard-fought victory. This match remains a highlight of England’s batting capabilities in the tournament.

5. Sri Lanka’s clinical chase: 322/3 vs. India (2017)

The 2017 Champions Trophy saw Sri Lanka pull off one of the most remarkable chases in the tournament’s history. Chasing India’s 321/6, Sri Lanka reached the target with ease, scoring 322/3 in just 48.4 overs. With a run rate of 6.61, the Lankan batters, led by Kusal Mendis and Danushka Gunathilaka, showcased their class and composure. This victory remains one of Sri Lanka’s ??finest moments in the Champions Trophy.

Also READ: Top 5 highest ind?ividual scores in Champions Trophy history

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The International Cricket Council (ICC) has toughened its stance on corruption and match-fixing. The ICC recently banned Bangladeshi cricketer Shohely Akhter from all forms of cricket for 5 years due to corruption charges, setting an infamous record in the sport’s history.

Charges of bribery and related offenses decimate Shohely Akhter’s career

Bangladesh off-spinner Akhter is the first female cricketer to be banned for corruption. The 36-year-old, who has represented Bangladesh in two ODIs and 13 T20Is, was found guilty of multiple breaches of the ICC’s Anti-Corruption Code (ACU). Her offenses included attempting to fix matches, offering a bribe, failing to fully disclose a corrupt approach, and obstructing the investigation. Consequently, officials banned h??er from all cricket for five years after she admitted to violating five provisions of the anti-corruption code.

Akhter’s corruption scandal

The charges against her stem from an approach she made to a Bangladesh cricketer during the 2023 Women’s T20 World Cup in South Africa. Al?though Akhter was not part of the playing squad, having last featured for Bangladesh in October 2022, her actions have led to severe consequences, serving as a stark reminder of the ICC’s zero-tolerance policy against corruption? in cricket.

Also Read: ICC Women’s T20I Rankings: Smriti Mandhana maintains batting dom??inance; Deandra Dottin’s significant rise among all-rounders

The ICC’s Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) uncovered Akhter’s involvement in match-fixing through an investigation into her Facebook Messenger conversation with a Bangladesh cricketer on February 14, 2023—the day of Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup match against Australia. Akhter att??empted to bribe the player with 2 million Bangladeshi Taka (approximately USD 16,400) to get out hit wicket during the game. The player, however, immediately reported the approach to the ACU, providing crucial voice notes as evidence, despite Akhter deleting the files from her own devices.

During the ACU intervie??w, Akhter admitted to sending the messages but initially claimed she was merely proving that Bangladesh players were not involved in fixing. She also presented fabricated screenshots to support her defense, but forensic analysis exposed the deception. Given the circumstances, including her agreement to a resolution without a formal hearing, the ICC imposed a? five-year ban, deeming it fair and proportionate. Akhter accepted the sanction, and neither she nor the ICC can appeal the decision. Her case serves as a significant warning against corruption in cricket, reinforcing the ICC’s strict stance on maintaining the sport’s integrity.

Also Read: Bangladesh Cr?icket Board part ways with Hashan T?illakaratne; appoints new head coach for Women’s team

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

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Australia‘s campaign for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has been significantly impacted by the confirmed absence of key players Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood. These injuries, combined with Mitchell Marsh‘s ongoing back issues and Marcus Stoinis‘ ODI retirement, necessitate strategic replacements to maintain the team’s competitiveness. With the tournament fast approaching, the selection panel faces the daunting task of finding suitable players to fill the void.

Pat Cummins-Josh Hazlewood void: Understanding the impact

Cummins’ absence is a major setback, as he is the team’s captain and a leading bowler. His ankle injury, sustained during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against India, has not healed in time for the Champions Trophy. Similarly, Hazlewood’s unavailability due to a hip injury further weakens the team’s bowling attack. The absence of these experienced players presents a significant challenge for Australia.

5 key replacements for Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood in Champions Trophy 2025

1. Aaron Hardie

• Role: All-rounder
• Why he is a fit: Aaron Hardie offers a valuable mix of batting and bowling skills, making him a strong contender to fill the void left by the injured players. Hardie’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball provides flexibility and depth to the team. His right-arm medium-fast bowling can provide crucial breakthroughs, while his aggressive batting style can inject momentum into the innings.

Also READ: Champions Trophy 2025: 3 players who can replace Marcus Stoinis in Australia’s sq??uad

2. Cooper Connolly

• Role: All-rounder
• Why he is a fit: Cooper Connolly is a promising young talent who has shown great potential in domestic cricket. As a left-handed batter and a spin bowler, Connolly brings a unique dimension to the team. His ability to accelerate the scoring rate and play fearless cricket makes him an intriguing option for the Champions Trophy. Connolly’s versatility could prove useful in varying match conditions.

3. Sean Abbott

• Role: All-rounder
• Why he is a fit: Sean Abbott is an experienced all-rounder who has been a consistent performer in Australia’s white-ball setup. Known for his pace and ability to generate swing, Abbott has also developed into a reliable lower-order batter. His performances in the Big Bash League (BBL) have highlighted his ability to contribute under pressure, making him a dependable option for the team. Abbott’s experience in major international tournaments could be a decisive factor in his selection.

4. Jhye Richardson

• Role: Fast Bowler
• Why he is a fit: Jhye Richardson is a talented fast bowler known for his pace and aggressive approach. With Cummins and Hazlewood out, Richardson has an opportunity to step up and lead the bowling attack. His ability to bowl consistently at high speeds and his knack for taking wickets make him a valuable asset in any format of the game.

5. Ben Dwarshuis

• Role: Fast Bowler
• Why he is a fit: Ben Dwarshuis is a left-arm fast bowler who can provide a different angle of attack. His ability to swing the ball and his variations in pace make him a tricky customer for the batters. Dwarshuis has been a consistent performer in domestic cricket, and his inclusion in the squad would add depth and variety to the bowling attack.

Also READ: Australia’s Pat Cummins and? Josh Hazlewood ruled out of Champions Trophy 2025

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The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially announced the panel of 15 match officials who will oversee the Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to take place from February 19 to March 9. The tournament will be co-hosted by Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) across four prestigious venues: Karachi, La??hore, Rawalpindi, and Dubai.

This announcement marks a signi??ficant step in the preparations for the eight-team competition, as the ICC has carefully selected a team of experienced and elite officials to ensure fair play and adherence to the highest standards of officiating in international cricket.

Kumar Dharmasena to Richard Kettleborough: Key officials for the tournament

The ICC’s panel for the tournament includes 12 umpires and three match referees, featuring some of the most renowned names in international cricket officiating. Among the 12 umpires, six were also part of the officiating team during the 2017 edition of the Champions Trophy.

Notably, Richard Kettleborough, who officiated in the final of the 2017 tournament between India and Pakistan, returns to bring his vast experience to the upcoming edition. Other returning umpires from the 2017 Champions Trophy include Chris Gaffaney, Kumar Dharmasena, Richard Illingworth, Paul Reiffel and Rod Tucker, all of whom have a ??wealth of experience in handling high-pressure internatio?nal fixtures.

Dharmasena, who has officiated in 132 Men’s One Day Internationals (ODIs), will extend his record as the Sri Lankan umpire with the most ODIs officiated. He will be joined by Kettleborough and Illingworth, who both played crucial roles in officiating the final of the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup between India and Australia in Ahmedabad.

Their presence ensures that the tournament will be overseen by officials who are accustomed to handling the pressures of global events. The other selected umpires include Michael Gough, Adrian Holdstock, Ahsan Raza, Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid, Alex Wharf and Joel Wilson. ??Each of these umpires brings a unique blend of experience and expertise, having officiated across various ICC tournaments, bilateral series, and domestic competitio??ns worldwide.

Match Officials: Umpires: Kumar Dharmasena, Chris Gaffaney, Michael Gough, Adrian Holdstock, Richard Illingworth, Richard Kettleborough, Ahsan Raza?, Paul Reiffel, Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid, Rodney Tucker, Alex?? Wharf, Joel Wilson.

Also READ: Pat Cummins?? doubtful for Champions Trophy 2025; Australian coach na?mes two captaincy options

Match referees to oversee the tournament

In addition to the umpires, the ICC has appointed three match referees who are members of the prestigious Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees. The panel includes David Boon, Ranjan Madugalle and Andrew Pycroft, all of whom have extensive ??experience in officiating ICC events.

Boon wa??s a part of the officiating team for the final of the 2017 Champions Trophy, while Pycroft also officiated in the same tournament. Madugalle, an esteemed match referee with decades of experience, officiated in the Champions Trophy 2013 final, which saw India emerge as champions. Their collective experience will ensure that the tournament maintains the highest standards of integrity and discipline, further enhancing the credibility of the officiating process.

Match Referees: David Boon, Ranjan Madugalle, Andrew Pycroft.

Also READ: Ravich??andran Ashwin explains how Varun Chakravarthy can get a place in India’s Champions Trophy 2025 squad

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The fourth T20I between India and England in Pune was not just about cricketing action but also about a major controversy regarding the concussion substitute rule. India’s choice to bring in Harshit Rana as a replacement for Shivam Dube drew criticism, with England’s skipper Jos Buttler questioning ?whether the decision aligned with ICC regulations.

Controversial decision raises questions

During the final over of India’s innings, Dube was struck on the helmet by a delivery from Jamie Overton. After medica??l examination, India announced that pacer Rana would take his place under the concussion substitute rule. Rana went on to make a significant impact with the ball, claiming three wickets for 33 runs and playing a pivotal role in India’s 15-run triumph.

However, England expressed concerns over the legitimacy of the substitution. Buttler argued that Rana, primarily a pace bowler, was not a suitable like-for??-like replacement for Dube, who is known for his batting and occasional medium-pace bowling.

Also READ: Triple-wicket maiden: ?England ??pacer Saqib Mahmood achieves a unique feat in the 4th T20I against India

Was Harshit Rana a true ‘like-for-like’ replacement?

Several experts believe that replacing an all-rounder like Dube with a specialist bowler such as Rana provided India with an advantage. Former players like Kevin Pietersen and Alastair Cook also weighed in, suggesting that the decision contradicted?? the spirit of the rule.

The ICC’s concussion substitute rules aim to maintain fairness in the game by ensuring that a replacement does not give a team an undue advantage. Clause 1.2.7.3 states that the substitute must be a like-for-like player, meaning their inclusion should not significantly strengthen the team be??yond what the concussed player offered. This prevents teams from using the rule strategically to gain an upper hand.

Mean??while, Clause 1.2.7.7 grants the match referee the final authority in approving or rejecting a concussion substitution, with no option for teams to challenge th?e decision, ensuring that disputes do not disrupt the match.

Clause 1.2.7.3: “A concussion replacement should be a comparable player whose inclusion does not provide a significant advantage to the team for the remainder of the match.” This rule ensures that teams do not exploi?t the concussion sub??stitution process.

Clause 1.2.7.7: “The match referee’s decision regarding a concussion replacement is final, and teams cannot appeal against it.”

Also READ: En??gland captain Jos Buttler fumes over India’s use of Harshit Rana as concussion sub in the 4th T20I

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The International Cricket Council (ICC) has concluded its annual awards for 2024, celebrating the outstanding performances of cricketers across the globe. The ceremony, held on January 28, recognized players for their exceptional contributions to the sport throughout the year. Jasprit Bumrah from India and Amelia Kerr from New Zealand emerged as the standout stars, each receiving prestigious accolades that highlight their remark??able achievements.

Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy: ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year

Winner: Jasprit Bumrah (India)

Bumrah was honoured with the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year, marking a significant milestone in his career as he became the first Indian pacer to receive this award. His performance in 2024 was nothing short of extraordinary; he claimed an impressive 71 wickets in just 13 Test matches, leading all bowlers globally. With an average of 14.92 and a strike rate of 30.1, Bumrah’s dominance was evident, as he also secured the ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year title. His ability to bounce back from injury and deliver exceptional performances has solidified his status as one of cricket’s elite bowlers.

Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy: ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Year

Winner: Amelia Kerr (New Zealand)

On the women’s side, Kerr was awarded the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy for ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Year. Her stellar performance during the T20 World Cup played a pivotal role in New Zealand’s triumph, leading them to their first title by defeating South Africa in the final. In addition to this accolade, Kerr also received the ICC Women’s T20I Cricketer of the Year award, showcasing her versatility and impact across formats. Throughout the year, she amassed significant runs and wickets, further establishin??g herself as a key player for her national team.

Also READ: He??re’s the list of ICC Men’s T20I Cricketer of Year winners ft.?? Arshdeep Singh

Notable Awards and Achievements

This year, three Indian cricketers made it to the prestigious honours list. In addition to Jasprit Bumrah, Smriti Mandhana and Arshdeep Singh also earned recognition for their outstanding performances. Mandhana was awarded the title of Women’s ODI Player of the Year, while Arshdeep received accolades for having his best-ever year in?? T20I cricket. The ICC Awards 2024 featured a comprehensive list of winners across various categories:

Men’s Awards:

• ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year: Jasprit Bumrah (India) – Recognized for his exceptional contributions in Test matches.
• ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Year: Azmatullah Omarzai (Afghanistan) – The first Afghan cricketer to win this award, reflecting Afghanistan’s growth in international cricket.
• ICC Men’s T20I Cricketer of the Year: Arshdeep Singh (India) – Honoured for his impactful performances in T20 internationals.
• ICC Emerging Men’s Cricketer of the Year: Kamindu Mendis (Sri Lanka) – Acknowledged for his potential and contributions to Sri Lankan cricket.
• ICC Men’s Associate Cricketer of the Year: Gerhard Erasmus (Namibia) – Celebrating his efforts in promoting cricket within associate nations.

Women’s Awards:

• ICC Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Year: Smriti Mandhana (India) – A standout year with four centuries.
• ICC Women’s Emerging Cricketer of the Year: Annerie Dercksen (South Africa).
• ICC Women’s Associate Player of the Year: Esha Oza (UAE).

Umpire of the Year

• ICC Umpire of the Year Award: Richard Illingworth (England) – Honoured for his exemplary officiating skills during international matches

Also READ: From 2004 to 2024: Here’s the list of ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Year winners ft. Azmatullah ??Omarzai

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