Opening pairs with century stands in Champions Trophy finals
What's the story
Indian openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill created a new record during the recently concluded ICC Champions Trophy final against New Zealand at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
While chasing New Zealand's target of 252 runs, the duo became the third opening pair with a century partnership in a CT final.
They added 105 runs as India won by four wickets. Here we look at the 100-plus opening stands in CT finals.
#3
Rohit and Gill - 105 vs NZ, 2025
Rohit led the charge for India, scoring 76 off 83 balls. Meanwhile, Gill supported him from the other end as they built a strong opening partnership.
Their stand was eventually broken by Mitchell Santner, who dismissed Gill after their impressive 105-run partnership.
The latter was dismissed for a 50-ball 31. However, the mammoth opening stand meant India later won the game with an over to spare.
#2
Fakhar and Ali - 128 vs India, 2017
India suffered a humiliating defeat at the hands of Pakistan in the 2017 CT final at The Oval.
Fakhar Zaman and Azhar Ali added 128 runs for the opening wicket as Pakistan finished at 338/4.
The former was the aggressor as he made 114 off just 106 balls. Ali (59 off 71) supported him well.
In response, India lost regular wickets in response as Mohammad Amir (3/16) and Hasan Ali (3/19) wrapped things up to secure a massive 180-run victory.
#1
Tendulkar and Ganguly - 141 vs NZ, 2000
India met New Zealand in the 2000 Champions Trophy final and posted 264/6 while batting first in Nairobi, Kenya.
Captain Sourav Ganguly starred with his second successive hundred, 117 off 130 balls. Sachin Tendulkar also made 69 off 83 balls.
The duo added 141 runs, which continues to be the highest opening stand in CT finals.
However, the Kiwi bowlers bounced back India finished at 264/6. In a thrilling chase, NZ (265/6) prevailed with just two balls to spare.