NEW DELHI: The year 2025 will be remembered as one of the most special chapters in cricket history. Across formats, continents and competitions, teams finally broke long-standing shackles, ended painful droughts and etched their names into the record books.

From iconic international triumphs to unforgettable domestic league moments, cricket in 2025 delivered drama, emotion and history in equal measure.

Here is a look at five moments that defined this extraordinary year.

5. Hobart Hurricanes conquer the BBL

The Hobart Hurricanes’ long wait for Big Bash League glory finally ended in January 2025, and it came in spectacular fashion. After years of near misses and heartbreaks, the side lifted their maiden BBL title in front of a euphoric home crowd.

Chasing a daunting target of 185 against the Sydney Sixers in the final, the Hurricanes produced one of the most sensational run chases in tournament history. Mitchell Owen was the star of the night, smashing a breathtaking century as Hobart stormed home in under 15 overs.

It was not just a title win, but a statement. For a franchise that had often flattered to deceive, this victory marked a historic turning point.

4. England finally win a test match in Australia after 14 years

England’s tour of Australia in 2025 was largely a forgettable one, with the visitors losing the Ashes after three straight defeats early in the series. Yet, amidst the disappointment came a moment that ended a painful 14-year wait.

At Melbourne, on a treacherous surface that turned the contest into a two-day shootout, England finally tasted Test victory on Australian soil. Chasing a tricky target of 178, the English batters showed grit and composure on a pitch that offered no mercy.

While the series was already lost, this win carried symbolic weight. It was a rare moment of redemption and a reminder that even in defeat, history can still be made.

3. South Africa end 27-year ICC title drought at Lord’s

South African cricket finally exorcised its biggest demon in 2025. After 27 long years of heartbreak, near misses and painful exits, the Proteas lifted an ICC trophy, and they did it at the most iconic venue of all.

Led by Temba Bavuma, South Africa stunned a strong Australian side in the final at Lord’s, chasing down a challenging target of 282. Aiden Markram played the innings of his life, scoring a magnificent century, while Bavuma anchored the chase with a gritty half-century under immense pressure.

2. RCB finally lift the IPL trophy

No moment dominated conversations, headlines and social media in 2025 quite like Royal Challengers Bangalore finally winning the Indian Premier League. In the 18th season of the tournament, RCB at last broke their title curse.

Despite disruptions and a stop-start campaign, the team held their nerve when it mattered most. Facing Punjab Kings in the final at Ahmedabad, RCB defended their total in a nail-biting finish, sealing a dramatic six-run victory.

The image of Virat Kohli in tears as RCB lifted their maiden IPL trophy became one of the defining visuals of the year. For a franchise and fanbase that had waited nearly two decades, it was a moment of pure release.

1. India women create history by winning ICC ODI WC

At the very top sits a watershed moment for Indian cricket. In 2025, the Indian women’s team finally claimed their first ICC ODI World Cup title, ending decades of heartbreak and unfulfilled promise.

After a shaky group stage, India found momentum at the perfect time, defeating strong opponents in back-to-back knockout matches. Under the leadership of Harmanpreet Kaur, the side showed resilience, belief and fearless intent.

In the final, against formidable opposition, India rose to the occasion and delivered when it mattered most. The triumph marked a historic breakthrough and a defining moment for women’s cricket in the country.