For the world David Miller's century in Champions Trophy semifinal against was valiant but for legendary Herschelle Gibbs it was nothing short of a selfish knock.
David Millers' fighting century in South Africa's losing cause vs New Zealand
South Africa's journey in the Champions Trophy 2025 concluded in disappointment as they suffered a 50-run loss to New Zealand in the semi-final. David Miller's fighting century wasn't enough to help Proteas chase down the record-breaking 362-run total, resulting in their elimination from the Champions Trophy 2025. Beyond the familiar narrative of South Africa's struggles in knockout matches, former cricketer Herschelle Gibbs stirred controversy with his dismissive comments regarding Miller's late-inning heroics.
New Zealand rode on magnificent centuries from Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson to register the highest total in Champions Trophy history. In reply, South Africa's batting faltered, with early wickets and a slow start from Temba Bavuma placing them under considerable pressure. By the time David Miller entered the scene, the required run rate had escalated dramatically, demanding over 200 runs from just 23 overs.
Herschelle Gibbs casts aspersions on David Miller's fighting century in Champions Trophy semifinal
Even with the odds stacked against him, David Miller refused to surrender. He delivered an extraordinary unbeaten century, which he clocked in mere 67 balls. Despite his valiant effort, South Africa's chances of chasing down the colossal target had diminished, and they ultimately fell short. Miller's remarkable innings, though spectacular, arrived too late to meaningfully alter the game's outcome.
However, former cricketer Herschelle Gibbs wasn't impressed with Miller's fighting century. He essentially downplayed the impact of Miller's century, implying that it did not contribute to a win.
“Yes he had a few throw downs .. game was long gone,” Gibbs wrote on X.
“Ok . After 37 overs the game was done so basically Davy could just tee off as he pleased .. no pressure no fuss .. basically like having a throw down,” he wrote in another post.
In the aftermath of South Africa's devastating semi-final defeat, Miller voiced his strong dissatisfaction with the ICC's scheduling. Due to India's position as group leaders, South Africa was forced to undertake a grueling 12-hour journey back to Lahore, leaving them with minimal time to recover and prepare for the crucial semi-final.
"It's only an hour and 40 minute flight, but the fact that we had to do that was not ideal. It's early morning, it's after a game and we had to fly. Then we got to Dubai at 4:00 pm. And at 7.30 am we had to come back. It doesn't make it nice. It's not like we flew five hours, and we had enough time to recover and recuperate, but it was not an ideal situation still," Miller said after South Africa's defeat against New Zealand.
South Africa will go back and reflect on the heartbreaking loss in the semifinal as all eyes will now be hooked on India versus New Zealand Champions Trophy final which is slated to be played on March 9 at the Dubai International stadium.