Image courtesy: Reuters
New Zealand continued their remarkable run in ICC tournaments by defeating South Africa by 50 runs in the Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. The victory was powered by centuries from Rachin Ravindra (108) and Kane Williamson (102), along with a crucial spell from Mitchell Santner (3/43), dismantling South Africa’s chase.
With this win, New Zealand booked their spot in the final against India, setting up a much-anticipated showdown between two of the tournament’s most consistent teams.
New Zealand’s Innings: A Record-Breaking Batting Display
- Final Score: 362/6 in 50 overs
- Top Performers:
- Rachin Ravindra: 108 runs (120 balls)
- Kane Williamson: 102 runs (95 balls)
- Daryl Mitchell: 65 runs (41 balls)
New Zealand won the toss and elected to bat first, looking to capitalize on the dry conditions in Lahore. The opening duo provided a steady start, but it was Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson who stole the show. Their partnership laid the foundation for an imposing total, with Ravindra’s century showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
Kane Williamson’s innings was a masterclass in controlled aggression, keeping the scoreboard ticking with well-placed boundaries and swift running between the wickets. Daryl Mitchell’s quickfire 65 in the final overs further bolstered New Zealand’s total, helping them cross the 360-run mark, the highest total in Champions Trophy 2025 so far.
Despite a strong start, South Africa’s bowlers struggled to contain the run flow. Kagiso Rabada (2/78) and Tabraiz Shamsi (1/55) were among the wicket-takers, but their efforts weren’t enough to restrict New Zealand.
South Africa’s Innings: A Valiant Effort That Fell Short
- Final Score: 312/9 in 50 overs
- Top Performers:
- David Miller: 100* (67 balls)
- Rassie van der Dussen: 58 (49 balls)
- Temba Bavuma: 54 (61 balls)
Chasing 363, South Africa got off to a decent start with Bavuma and De Kock, but the early dismissals of De Kock and Aiden Markram put them on the back foot. Rassie van der Dussen and Temba Bavuma tried to stabilize the innings, but New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack kept the required run rate soaring.
The highlight of South Africa’s chase was *David Miller’s sensational unbeaten century (100 off 67 balls)**. His late onslaught, which included 7 sixes and 5 fours, gave South Africa a glimmer of hope. However, with wickets tumbling at the other end, Miller ran out of partners, and South Africa finished 50 runs short of the target.
Key Moments and Match-Winning Performances
Rachin Ravindra’s Fifth ODI Century in ICC Events
Rachin Ravindra continues to cement his place as one of the best young cricketers in world cricket. His 108-run knock was composed, with well-timed shots and strategic play against both pacers and spinners. This was his fifth century in ICC tournaments, proving his big-match temperament.
Kane Williamson’s Captain’s Knock
Williamson’s ability to anchor innings and shift gears when needed was on full display. His 102 off 95 balls ensured New Zealand maintained momentum, making South Africa’s bowling attack struggle throughout.
Mitchell Santner’s Game-Changing Spell
New Zealand’s star all-rounder, Mitchell Santner, delivered a match-winning spell of 3/43, dismissing key middle-order batsmen, including Aiden Markram and Heinrich Klaasen. His breakthroughs ensured South Africa never gained full control of the chase.
David Miller’s Fighting Knock
Miller’s 100 (67 balls)* was a one-man rescue mission that almost turned the tide. His aggressive stroke play in the final overs gave South Africa a fighting chance, but it came too late as New Zealand’s bowlers held their nerve.
What’s Next? New Zealand vs India – A Champions Trophy Final Rematch
New Zealand’s victory sets up a thrilling final against India, rekindling memories of their 2000 Champions Trophy final, where New Zealand triumphed by four wickets. This time, the stakes are even higher, with both teams in fine form.
Can New Zealand lift the Champions Trophy again, or will India claim their third title? The final promises to be an electrifying contest between two of the most consistent teams in world cricket.
Final Thoughts
New Zealand’s dominant performance against South Africa showcased their all-round strength in batting and bowling. With key players in form and the team riding high on confidence, they head into the final against India as serious contenders for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Stay tuned for more updates on the final, as cricket fans eagerly await the New Zealand vs India showdown!
