Rohit-Shubman: 3rd pair to record century opening stand in CT final
Team India captain Rohit Sharma and vice-captain Shubman Gill scripted history by becoming the third pair to record a century opening stand in a Champions Trophy final, scoring 105(112) against New Zealand in the 2025 edition of the tournament. The impressive partnership put India in a strong position, setting the tone for a thrilling contest at the iconic Lord’s stadium.
Sourav Ganguly and Sachin Tendulkar were the first pair to achieve this feat, putting on a 141-run opening stand against New Zealand in the 2000 edition of the Champions Trophy. The duo’s impressive display helped India post a mammoth total of 287-5, which proved to be too much for New Zealand to chase down.
Fast forward to 2017, Azhar Ali and Fakhar Zaman became the second pair to record a century opening stand in a Champions Trophy final, making 128 against India. The pair’s impressive display helped Pakistan post a competitive total of 338-4, which India eventually chased down with just one ball to spare.
Rohit and Shubman’s century opening stand against New Zealand took India to a strong position, with the team scoring 192-1 in 25 overs. The pair’s partnership came off 112 balls, with Rohit scoring 65(45) and Shubman making 40(32). The impressive display was marked by some exquisite batting shots, particularly from Rohit, who seemed to be in top form.
The century opening stand was not the only impressive display by Rohit in the match. He also became the first captain to score a century and take four wickets in a Champions Trophy final. His all-round display helped India take control of the match, and his team eventually emerged victorious by 67 runs.
The win marked India’s third Champions Trophy title, and Rohit’s second as captain. He had previously led India to victory in the 2021 edition of the tournament, where they defeated England in the final.
The win was also a testament to the team’s impressive batting lineup, which has been a key factor in their success in recent years. The team’s top-order has been particularly impressive, with Rohit, Shubman, and Virat Kohli forming a formidable trio.
The team’s bowling attack has also been impressive, with Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and Harshal Patel forming a deadly trio. The trio has been instrumental in the team’s success, taking regular wickets and conceding runs at a relatively low rate.
The win has also given India a much-needed boost ahead of the upcoming World Cup, which is scheduled to take place later this year. The team will be looking to build on their momentum and make a deep run in the tournament.
In conclusion, Rohit-Shubman’s century opening stand against New Zealand was a remarkable display of batting, and a testament to the team’s impressive batting lineup. The pair’s impressive display was marked by some exquisite batting shots, and their partnership set the tone for a thrilling contest at the iconic Lord’s stadium.
