In a thrilling display of power hitting, South African batsman David Miller etched his name into the annals of cricket history by scoring a blistering century off just 67 balls during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final against New Zealand. This remarkable feat not only showcased Miller’s explosive batting prowess but also saw him equal the record for the fastest century in ICC ODI knockout matches, a record he now shares with India’s Shreyas Iyer.
The Innings in Context
Chasing a daunting target set by New Zealand, South Africa found themselves in a precarious position, with wickets tumbling at regular intervals. Amidst the pressure, Miller stood tall, launching a counter-assault on the Kiwi bowlers. His innings was characterized by a flurry of boundaries and towering sixes, injecting hope into the South African camp. Despite his valiant effort, South Africa fell short, but Miller’s century remained the highlight of the match.
Joint-Fastest Century in ICC Knockout History
Miller’s 67-ball century matched the record set by Shreyas Iyer during the 2023 ICC ODI World Cup semi-final against New Zealand. Iyer’s innings had been lauded for its aggression and timing, and Miller’s recent exploit sits comfortably alongside it, underscoring his ability to perform under immense pressure.
Fastest Centuries in ICC ODI Knockout Matches:
- Shreyas Iyer: 67 balls vs. New Zealand, 2023
- David Miller: 67 balls vs. New Zealand, 2025
Breaking Champions Trophy Records
Beyond the joint-fastest century in ICC knockout matches, Miller’s innings also set a new benchmark in the Champions Trophy context. He surpassed the previous record for the fastest century in the tournament’s history, eclipsing the 77-ball hundreds scored by Virender Sehwag and Josh Inglis. Miller’s achievement not only highlights his individual brilliance but also adds a significant chapter to the tournament’s rich history.
A Glimpse into Miller’s Career
David Miller has long been recognized for his aggressive batting style and ability to change the course of a game single-handedly. This recent century adds to his impressive repertoire of performances in limited-overs cricket. Known for his mantra, “If it’s in the arc, it’s out of the park,” Miller has consistently been a match-winner for South Africa, and his latest innings further cements his status as one of the most formidable finishers in the modern game.
Conclusion
David Miller’s explosive century in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final serves as a testament to his skill and resilience. By equaling the record for the fastest century in ICC ODI knockout matches, he has etched his name alongside Shreyas Iyer in cricketing lore. While South Africa’s campaign may have ended in disappointment, Miller’s innings will be remembered as one of the standout performances of the tournament, exemplifying the thrill and unpredictability that makes cricket such a beloved sport worldwide.
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