As the Champions Trophy 2025 reaches its thrilling finale, cricket fans are on the edge of their seats watching India and New Zealand battle it out for the top prize. India’s path to the final was paved with a determined victory over Australia in the first semi-final. Meanwhile, New Zealand secured their spot in the final after a nail-biting encounter with South Africa, where the Black Caps emerged victorious.
New Zealand set South Africa a daunting target, but David Miller wasn’t ready to concede defeat lightly. The South African batter made history by smashing the fastest century in Champions Trophy history, reaching 100 runs in just 67 balls.
A Heroic Knock from David Miller
Miller’s brilliant unbeaten innings of 100 runs, peppered with 10 boundaries and 4 sixes, anchored South Africa’s chase. Despite the obstacles, such as setbacks with key players like Ryan Rickelton, Temba Bavuma, and Rassie van der Dussen stepping off the field, Miller’s aggressive play kept the dream alive. Bavuma contributed a solid 56, and van der Dussen added 69. But Miller’s relentless hitting, at a breathtaking strike rate of 149.25, couldn’t overcome the fall of crucial wickets. In the end, South Africa finished at 312/9, falling short by 50 runs in 50 overs, unable to chase down New Zealand’s massive total.
In light of Miller’s extraordinary effort to rally his team, let’s revisit the top 5 fastest centuries in the history of the Champions Trophy.
Top 5 Fastest Tons in Champions Trophy
-
David Miller (100 off 67 balls):
At a pivotal moment, Miller stepped up, determined to turn the tide for South Africa. With Rickelton, Bavuma, and van der Dussen back in the pavilion, South Africa’s hopes rested heavily on him. Partnering with the tailenders, he steered the team, inching closer to the target set by New Zealand. Despite his valiant effort, his century wasn’t enough to seal a victory for his side.
-
Virender Sehwag (100 off 77 balls):
Sehwag’s explosive innings in the 2002 clash against England led India to a dominating 8-wicket win. His 126 off just 104 balls, which featured 21 boundaries and a six, made light work of England’s total, reaching the target with ease and plenty of balls to spare. His innings was a masterclass in controlled aggression, keeping India firmly ahead in the chase.
-
Josh Inglis (100 off 77 balls):
In the 2025 showdown between Australia and England, Inglis delivered a match-defining century. Scoring 120 not out from 86 balls, his performance was all about balancing power and precision. With 8 boundaries and 6 sixes, Inglis guided Australia to a 5-wicket victory, seeing off England’s target with 15 balls in hand.
-
Shikhar Dhawan (100 off 80 balls):
Dhawan’s 114 off 94 balls in the 2013 encounter against South Africa was a combination of elegance and aggression. With 12 boundaries and a six, he laid a strong foundation for India’s total of 331/7. Dhawan’s calculated approach ensured that India maintained momentum throughout, even as wickets tumbled around him.
-
Tillakratne Dilshan (100 off 87 balls):
Dilshan’s innings in 2009 against South Africa was a showcase of skill, scoring 106 off 92 balls. With 16 boundaries and a six, he teamed up with Mahela Jayawardene to build a solid opening partnership. His ability to press on in the middle overs helped set up Sri Lanka’s formidable total of 319/8, leading to a 55-run victory using the D/L method.
In a tournament filled with unforgettable moments and stellar performances, these innings have rightfully earned their place in Champions Trophy history. As the cricketing world watches the grand finale between India and New Zealand, anticipation and excitement are running high.
