India vs New Zealand, ICC Champions Trophy Final 2000: Today, October 15, is a day that Indian cricket fans will never forget. It is a day that could be called a “bad day” for Indian cricket. Exactly 24 years ago, on this day, New Zealand defeated India in the final of the ICC Champions Trophy to win their first major title.
This was the 2000 Champions Trophy, and India faced New Zealand in the final. Sourav Ganguly was the captain of the Indian team, which included legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Yuvraj Singh, Vinod Kambli, and Robin Singh. The bowling attack featured stars like Zaheer Khan, Venkatesh Prasad, Ajit Agarkar, and Anil Kumble. However, India fell short of becoming champions.
In the final match, India batted first and scored 264 runs for 6 wickets in 50 overs. Indian captain Sourav Ganguly played a brilliant innings of 117 runs, hitting 9 fours and 4 sixes. Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar contributed with 69 runs. Unfortunately, no other batsman could play a big innings after that. Still, considering India’s strong bowling attack, this score was thought to be a winning total.
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While chasing the target of 265 runs, New Zealand lost two early wickets at just 37 runs. Then they lost their third wicket at 82, the fourth at 109, and by the time they reached 132 runs, half of their team was back in the pavilion. At this point, it seemed like India would easily win the match and take the title. However, Chris Cairns completely changed the game with his unbeaten match-winning knock of 102 runs. He was supported by all-rounder Chris Harris, who scored 46 runs. Thanks to their efforts, New Zealand chased down the target with three balls to spare.
