The ICC Champions Trophy, one of the prestigious tournaments in international cricket, had a storied history that began in 1998. It brought together the world's best cricketing nations to compete in a round-robin format followed by knockout rounds. Over the years, the Champions Trophy saw many thrilling encounters, with some memorable teams clinching the title. Let’s take a look at who was the first and last winner of the ICC Champions Trophy.
First Winner of the ICC Champions Trophy: South Africa
The first edition of the ICC Champions Trophy, which was hosted by Bangladesh, was held in 1998, when it was known as the ICC KnockOut tournament. This inaugural tournament featured the top 9 teams in international cricket, with a direct knockout format. The final match of this tournament was played at the Bangabandhu National Stadium, Dhaka, where South Africa faced West Indies for the coveted title.
The West Indies faced a grueling schedule, playing three matches in just four days leading up to the final. They ultimately lost to South Africa by four wickets after a dominant all-round show by Jacques Kallis. Along with Kallis, Daryll Cullinan and captain Hansie Cronje played key roles in securing South Africa's first-ever title in a major ICC tournament.
In the inaugural final of the tournament, the West Indies were bowled out for 245 in 49.3 overs, with Philo Wallace scoring a century (103 runs). Jacques Kallis was the pick of the South African bowlers, taking five wickets for 30 runs. South Africa successfully chased down the target, reaching the required runs in 47 overs while losing six wickets. Hansie Cronje remained unbeaten with 61 runs, while Mike Rindel contributed 49 runs. South Africa won the match by four wickets, securing the inaugural tournament title. Jacques Kallis was named both the man of the match and the man of the tournament for his outstanding all-round performance.
Last Winner of the ICC Champions Trophy: Pakistan
Fast forward to 2017, and the ICC Champions Trophy witnessed its final edition. After nearly two decades of exciting cricketing action, the Champions Trophy came to an end. The last tournament was held in England and Wales, and the final was played at The Oval, London. In the final, Pakistan stunned the cricketing world by bulldozing India in one of the most remarkable finals in the history of the tournament.
Pakistan secured their place in the final by convincingly defeating hosts England by 8 wickets in the first semi-final at Cardiff on June 14th, marking their first-ever appearance in a Champions Trophy final. India, on the other hand, reached their fourth Champions Trophy final (a record) by defeating Bangladesh by 9 wickets in the second semi-final at Birmingham on June 15.
In the final, Fakhar Zaman scored a magnificent century, propelling Pakistan to a total of 338-4 in the hot London sunshine. Mohammad Amir then delivered a devastating spell, dismantling India's top order and leaving the defending champions reeling at 54/5. India could only manage to reach 158, resulting in a resounding 180-run victory for Pakistan. This win secured Pakistan's first global 50-over title since 1992.
Here is the list of year-wise Champions Trophy winners:
| Year | Host Nation(S) | Winners | Runners-Up |
| 1998 | Bangladesh | South Africa |
West Indies |
| 2000 | Kenya | New Zealand | India |
| 2002 | Sri Lanka | Sri Lanka and India | None |
| 2004 | England | West Indies | England |
| 2006 | India | Australia |
West Indies |
| 2009 | South Africa | Australia |
New Zealand |
| 2013 | England and Wales | India | England |
| 2017 | England and Wales | Pakistan | India |
After a gap of eight years, Champions Trophy is back with a bang and is set to kick off from February 19. The arch rivals India and Pakistan will yet again be up against each other in a high-octane clash which is slated to be played on February 23.