Rahul Dravid to Daryl Mitchell: Players with the Slowest Fifties in Champions Trophy
The ICC Champions Trophy has witnessed some thrilling cricketing moments, but it’s also home to instances where players took an eternity to reach their fifties. Here, we delve into the players who took the most deliveries to score their half-centuries in this prestigious tournament.
1. Rahul Dravid
Rahul Dravid, known as “The Wall,” scored a painstaking 50 off 136 balls against England in the 2004 Champions Trophy. His ability to anchor the innings was unmatched, but this innings was a testament to his patience more than his scoring rate.
2. Daryl Mitchell
Fast forward to modern cricket, and we have Daryl Mitchell, who took 108 balls to reach his half-century against India in the 2021 edition. While his innings helped stabilize the New Zealand batting order, it certainly tested the patience of fans.
3. Ian Bell
Ian Bell’s 50 off 112 balls against Australia in the 2013 Champions Trophy is another entry in this exclusive club. Bell’s technique was solid, but his slow scoring left spectators craving more runs.
4. Mark Waugh
Mark Waugh made his mark in the 1996 Champions Trophy with a 50 off 109 balls against the West Indies. His innings is often remembered for its slow tempo, overshadowing his potential for explosive batting.
5. Mohammad Hafeez
Finally, Mohammad Hafeez’s 50 off 108 balls against South Africa in 2013 had fans scratching their heads. While he eventually found his rhythm, the slow start was less than ideal for a tournament setting.
These players remind us that sometimes, patience is key in cricket—even if it means taking a few extra balls to reach that half-century. For those looking to enjoy the game even more, check out Looffers.com for exciting offers related to sports gear and more!
