New Zealand delivered a dominant performance, both batting and bowling, to defeat South Africa in the second semi-final in Lahore. This victory secures their place in the Champions Trophy 2025 final.
Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson each scored centuries, propelling New Zealand to a formidable total of 362 runs. New Zealand’s spin bowlers then effectively restricted South Africa, ensuring their team’s victory. Despite a spectacular, record-breaking century from David Miller for South Africa, New Zealand won by 50 runs.
South Africa faced immediate pressure during their run chase. New Zealand’s bowlers, Matt Henry and Kyle Jamieson, started strongly. This pressure led to an early wicket as Ryan Rickelton was dismissed. Although Rassie van der Dussen began positively with a boundary, South Africa initially struggled to score freely.
While South Africa improved their scoring rate during the powerplay, they found it challenging to handle New Zealand’s spin attack. Michael Bracewell and Mitchell Santner bowled with great control, making scoring difficult.
Despite half-centuries from Bavuma and van der Dussen, Santner dismissed both batsmen, shifting the momentum firmly towards New Zealand. Santner’s variations in pace and spin proved crucial in breaking South Africa’s key partnerships.
South Africa’s hopes then rested on Heinrich Klaasen, but Kane Williamson won their crucial matchup, dismissing Klaasen. Following this, New Zealand quickly wrapped up the innings, with Bracewell and part-time bowlers Ravindra and Phillips taking further wickets.
David Miller provided late fireworks, scoring the fastest-ever Champions Trophy century. However, his efforts were not enough to overcome the large deficit, and New Zealand secured a 50-run victory.
Earlier in the day, New Zealand’s batting performance was exceptional. Ravindra was aggressive from the start, and after an initial slowdown by South Africa, Williamson helped regain control.
Ravindra was particularly dominant, consistently finding the boundary, while Williamson played a supporting role initially. Both batsmen reached their milestones, with Ravindra achieving his fifth ODI century, all in ICC tournaments, and Williamson his half-century.
After Williamson reached his century, Daryl Mitchell provided further impetus to the innings. New Zealand capitalized in the final overs, scoring 83 runs in the last six overs, setting a high target for South Africa.
Brief Scores: New Zealand 362/6 (50 overs) – Rachin Ravindra 108, Kane Williamson 102, Glenn Phillips 49; Lungi Ngidi 3/72 beat South Africa 312/9 (50 overs) – David Miller 100*, Rassie van der Dussen 69; Mitchell Santner 3/43 by 50 runs.
