Epic Run Chases: Top 5 Thrilling Finishes in Champions Trophy History

In the high-octane world of cricket, few moments are as electrifying as a last-minute run chase. The Champions Trophy has delivered some of the most memorable comebacks, with teams overturning daunting targets in spectacular fashion. Here are five of the most unforgettable chases that have left fans on the edge of their seats:

1. Sri Lanka’s 322 vs. India at The Oval (2017)
   India set a challenging total of 321, powered by Shikhar Dhawan’s scintillating 125, supported by Rohit Sharma’s 78 and MS Dhoni’s 63. Yet, Kusal Mendis (89) and Danushka Gunathilaka (76) forged a crucial 159-run partnership, setting the stage for Angelo Mathews and Asela Gunaratne to wrap up the chase in just 48.4 overs.

2. England’s 306 vs. Bangladesh at The Oval (2017)
   Bangladesh began with a bang as Tamim Iqbal’s 128 and Mushfiqur Rahim’s 79 propelled them to 305/6. England, however, countered with a composed chase, led by an unbeaten 133 from Joe Root, a brilliant 95 by Alex Hales, and Eoin Morgan’s impactful 75*, securing the win with eight wickets in hand.

3. Sri Lanka’s 294 vs. England at The Oval (2013)
   Kumar Sangakkara’s masterful 134* and Nuwan Kulasekara’s 58* played a pivotal role in dismantling England’s efforts, which featured Joe Root (68), Jonathan Trott (76), and Alastair Cook (59).

4. South Africa’s 282 vs. England in Dhaka (1998)
   In the inaugural edition, South Africa stunned England by chasing 282, buoyed by contributions from Daryl Cullinan (69), Hansie Cronje (67), and Jonty Rhodes’ unbeaten 61*, following a disciplined bowling effort led by Jacques Kallis (3/48).

5. England’s 273 vs. West Indies in Ahmedabad (2006)
   Despite Chris Gayle’s valiant century for the West Indies, Kevin Pietersen’s classic unbeaten 90*, along with fifties from Alastair Cook and Ian Bell, propelled England to victory with nine balls to spare.

These thrilling chases encapsulate the drama and unpredictability that define the Champions Trophy, cementing its legacy as one of cricket’s most celebrated tournaments.