Decoding India's dismal campaign in 2004 Champions Trophy
What's the story
Often dubbed as the "mini World Cup," the ICC Champions Trophy is one of the most prestigious ODI tournaments in cricket history. The 2025 edition of the tournament will begin on February 19, with Pakistan as the original hosts and India playing their matches in Dubai. Over the years, India's performance in this tournament has been a mix of triumphs and disappointments. Here we revisit their campaign in the 2004 edition.
IND vs KEN
Win over Kenya
India's campaign in 2004 ended in disappointment as they couldn't make it past the group stage. They met Kenya in their opener and posted 290/4 while batting first in Southampton. The Men in Blue were powered by their captain Sourav Ganguly (90) and VVS Laxman (79). Mohammad Kaif made a fiery 49*. Kenya were restricted to just 192/7 in response as Harbhajan Singh dismissed three batters.
IND vs PAK
Loss against arch-rivals Pakistan
India were knocked-out of the semi-final race after losing their second and final league game against Pakistan in Birmingham. Naved-ul-Hasan and Shoaib Akhtar picked up four wickets each to restrict India to only 200/10 in the first innings. Rahul Dravid (67) and Ajit Agarkar (47) played handy knocks. Despite being reduced to 27/3, Yousuf Youhana's 81* helped Pakistan cross the line with four balls to spare. Irfan Pathan took three wickets.
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Significance of the game
Notably, the 2004 edition marked India's maiden meeting with Pakistan in the Champions Trophy. This was also Pakistan's first win against India in an ICC tournament.