Lahore: Despite a century that ultimately went unrewarded, David Miller succeeded in breaking Virender Sehwag's long-standing record for the fastest century in the Champions Trophy, achieving the milestone in just 67 balls.
In the second semi-final against New Zealand at Gaddafi Stadium, Miller fought valiantly in South Africa's chase of a daunting 363-run target. As wickets fell around him, he kept the hope alive with his exceptional batting skills. On the final delivery of the innings, he dashed for a double, reaching three figures and surpassing Sehwag's record.
Miller's achievement came in 67 balls, eclipsing Sehwag's previous record of 77 balls, set during the 2002 tournament against England in Colombo.
With this latest century, the dynamic left-hander continued his impressive form in ICC ODI knockout matches. In his last four outings in such fixtures, Miller has notched two centuries and one fifty.
He previously scored an unbeaten 56 off 51 balls against England in the 2013 Champions Trophy semi-final and followed that with a rapid 49 runs from just 18 balls against New Zealand in the 2015 World Cup semi-final.
In the 2023 ODI World Cup semi-final against Australia, Miller defied expectations with a remarkable 101 off 116 balls at the historic Eden Gardens in Kolkata.
Reflecting on Miller's remarkable performance in Lahore, it began with New Zealand winning the toss and opting to bat first. Kane Williamson (102) and Rachin Ravindra (108) took full advantage of the favorable pitch conditions, putting the Kiwis in a commanding position.
Late fireworks from Glenn Phillips (49*) and Daryl Mitchell (49) propelled New Zealand to a total of 362/6, marking the highest score in Champions Trophy history.
Miller sought assistance from his teammates as South Africa's batsmen faltered under the pressure of the scoreboard. The required run rate escalated significantly, leading to South Africa relinquishing their aspirations for the title after suffering a 50-run loss.
Prior to this, Australia's Josh Inglis matched Sehwag's record in the current tournament with his explosive performance during the record chase against their long-standing rivals, England, in Lahore during the group stage.
