The 2013 ICC Champions Trophy final remains etched in the memories of cricket fans as a match of incredible tension, strategic brilliance, and a nail-biting finish. Played on June 23, 2013, at Edgbaston in Birmingham, this clash between arch-rivals India and hosts England was a fitting culmination to a tournament that had its fair share of drama. Ultimately, it was MS Dhoni's India who emerged victorious, clinching the trophy by a narrow margin of 5 runs in a match that, due to rain, was reduced to a T20-like encounter.
This victory was particularly significant for MS Dhoni, as it marked the only time a captain has won all three major ICC trophies: the T20 World Cup (2007), the ODI World Cup (2011), and the Champions Trophy (2013). For India, it was their second Champions Trophy title, and their first won outright, having previously shared the honor in 2002.
A Match Shaped by Rain and Resilience
The final was significantly impacted by rain, which delayed the start and forced the match to be reduced to 20 overs per side. England won the toss and elected to field, a decision that initially seemed to work in their favor as they reduced India to a precarious 66 for 5 at one stage. The Indian top order, including Rohit Sharma (9), Shikhar Dhawan (31), and MS Dhoni himself (0), struggled against the English bowlers, with Ravi Bopara being particularly effective, taking three wickets for 20 runs.
However, a crucial partnership between Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja provided India with a fighting total. Kohli scored a vital 43 runs off 34 balls, while Jadeja provided a crucial cameo of 33 not out from 25 deliveries, including a six off the final ball of the innings that propelled India to 129 for 7 in their allotted 20 overs. This total, though modest, proved to be a challenging target on a pitch that offered considerable turn for the spinners.
England's Chase: Collapse Under Pressure
Chasing 130 for victory, England started their innings cautiously. However, the Indian spinners, particularly Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, began to weave their magic, exploiting the turning conditions and putting the English batsmen under immense pressure. The early wickets of Alastair Cook (2), Jonathan Trott (20), Ian Bell (13), and Joe Root (7) left England in a precarious position at 46 for 4 in the eighth over.
Eoin Morgan and Ravi Bopara then forged a crucial partnership, scoring 64 runs for the fifth wicket and bringing England close to the target. At one point, with 20 runs needed from 16 balls and six wickets in hand, England appeared to be in control of the chase. However, a dramatic turnaround occurred when Ishant Sharma dismissed both Morgan (33) and Bopara (30) in quick succession, triggering a collapse. This shift in momentum proved to be the turning point of the match.
The Final Over Thriller and India's Triumph
The match culminated in a tense final over, with England needing 15 runs to win and India's Ravichandran Ashwin tasked with defending the total. Ashwin held his nerve brilliantly, conceding just six runs and taking the crucial wicket of James Tredwell off the last ball, as India secured a memorable 5-run victory. The Indian players erupted in celebration, marking a historic moment in Indian cricket.
Ravindra Jadeja was deservedly awarded the Man of the Match for his all-round performance, scoring 33 runs and taking two crucial wickets. Shikhar Dhawan was named the Man of the Series, having amassed 363 runs throughout the tournament, including two centuries.
Statistical Highlights and Records
- Result: India won by 5 runs
- Venue: Edgbaston, Birmingham
- Date: June 23, 2013
- Toss: England elected to field
- Match Reduced To: 20 overs per side due to rain
- India Innings: 129/7 (20 overs)
- England Innings: 124/8 (20 overs)
- Man of the Match: Ravindra Jadeja (India)
- Man of the Series: Shikhar Dhawan (India)
- Key Records: MS Dhoni became the first captain to win all three ICC trophies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the 2013 Champions Trophy?
India won the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy, defeating England in the final by 5 runs.
Where was the 2013 Champions Trophy final played?
The final was played at Edgbaston Cricket Ground in Birmingham, England.
What was the score in the 2013 Champions Trophy final?
India scored 129/7 in 20 overs, and England scored 124/8 in 20 overs, with India winning by 5 runs.
Who was the Man of the Match in the 2013 Champions Trophy final?
Ravindra Jadeja was awarded the Man of the Match for his all-round performance.
Who was the Man of the Series in the 2013 Champions Trophy?
Shikhar Dhawan was named the Man of the Series for his outstanding batting performance throughout the tournament.
Was the 2013 Champions Trophy final affected by rain?
Yes, the match was significantly affected by rain, leading to it being reduced to a 20-over per side game.
Conclusion
The 2013 Champions Trophy final stands as a testament to India's grit and determination. Despite the challenges posed by rain and a strong English side, MS Dhoni's men held their nerve to secure a historic victory. This match not only added another prestigious trophy to India's cabinet but also cemented MS Dhoni's legacy as one of cricket's greatest captains. The thrilling finish and the records created ensure that this final will be remembered for years to come.
