Champions Trophy 2025 Reaches Thrilling Finale
The Champions Trophy 2025 has reached its pinnacle as the two finalists prepare to battle for ultimate glory. In the first semi-final, India dominated Australia, securing their spot in the final. The second semi-final witnessed an intense clash between New Zealand and South Africa, where the Black Caps emerged victorious in a nail-biting contest, setting up an exciting final against India.
South Africa, despite facing a challenging total set by New Zealand, fought valiantly. David Miller was the standout performer, scoring a breathtaking century off just 67 balls— the fastest hundred in Champions Trophy history. His heroics, however, weren’t enough to steer South Africa to victory, as they fell short by 50 runs, finishing at 312/9 in 50 overs.
David Miller’s Heroic Knock
Miller delivered a sensational innings of 100 not out from 67 balls, anchoring South Africa’s chase. His knock, studded with 10 boundaries and 4 sixes, kept the Proteas in the hunt despite losing key players like Ryan Rickelton, Temba Bavuma (56), and Rassie van der Dussen (69) at crucial stages. Though Heinrich Klaasen, Marco Jansen, and others fell during the middle overs, Miller’s resilience ensured the required run rate remained manageable. His strike rate of 149.25 showcased his aggressive intent, but the pressure of chasing a mammoth total eventually proved too much for South Africa.
Top 5 Fastest Centuries in Champions Trophy History
Here’s a look at the fastest ODI centuries in Champions Trophy history, led by David Miller’s record-breaking knock:
David Miller (100 off 67 balls)
Miller arrived at the crease with South Africa in a precarious situation. Despite losing key batters, he formed crucial partnerships with Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi, keeping South Africa’s hopes alive. His valiant effort, though, couldn’t save the Proteas from defeat.Virender Sehwag (100 off 77 balls)
Sehwag’s explosive 126 off 104 balls against England in 2002 powered India to an emphatic 8-wicket win. His innings included 21 boundaries and a six, showcasing his dominance at a strike rate of 121.15.Josh Inglis (100 off 77 balls)
Inglis’ unbeaten 120 off 86 balls in the 2025 clash between Australia and England was a masterclass in chasing. His knock, featuring 8 boundaries and 6 sixes, guided Australia to a 5-wicket victory with 15 balls to spare.Shikhar Dhawan (100 off 80 balls)
Dhawan’s 114 off 94 balls against South Africa in 2013 was a blend of elegance and aggression. His innings, with 12 boundaries and a six, laid the foundation for India’s total of 331/7, helping them secure a crucial win.- Tillakaratne Dilshan (100 off 87 balls)
Dilshan’s 106 off 92 balls against South Africa in 2009 was a masterful display of timing and precision. His 16 boundaries and a six propelled Sri Lanka to a formidable total of 319/8, leading to a 55-run victory under the D/L method.
Key Moments and Takeaways
- Mitchell Santner’s Jaffa: Santner’s dismissal of Rassie van der Dussen in the semi-final was a turning point in New Zealand’s victory over South Africa.
- Temba Bavuma’s Insights: Bavuma reflected on South Africa’s defeat, highlighting missed opportunities and the pressure of chasing a big total.
The Champions Trophy 2025 final promises to be a thrilling encounter as New Zealand and India lock horns for the coveted title. Both teams have showcased exceptional performances throughout the tournament, and the final is set to be a fitting conclusion to this prestigious competition.
