In the second semi-final of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, New Zealand beat South Africa by 50 runs at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
The Kiwis won the toss and decided to bat first on a batting-friendly track. The top-order batters, Rachin Ravindra (108) and Kane Williamson (102), set the tone for the team to score a massive total. The two batters established a 164-run stand for the second wicket, and subsequently Daryl Mitchell (49) and Glenn Phillips (49*) contributed important runs. New Zealand concluded their innings at 362/6 in 50 overs, which helped them gain momentum in the game.
In the chase, skipper Temba Bavuma (56) gave his team a strong start by scoring a brilliant fifty. Bavuma got a vital hand from Rassie van der Dussen (69) as both added a 100-run partnership. However, none of the batters were able to bat long after attaining their milestones, which proved to be a turning point. While wickets continued to fall from one end, David Miller (100*) stood out as the lone warrior, doing everything he could to help his team win. The “Killer Miller” began his knock slowly, but the conversion from 50 to 100 was the highlight. Eventually, the side could only manage to score 312/9 in 50 overs.
While defending, Mitchell Santner showcased his brilliance as he took three wickets. Two wickets each were also grabbed by Matt Henry and Glenn Phillips, while one wicket each was grabbed by Michael Bracewell and Rachin Ravindra.
For SA with the ball, Lungi Ngidi scalped three wickets, while two wickets were taken by Kagiso Rabada. Wiaan Mulder also managed to claim one wicket.
With this win, NZ have advanced to the finals and will face India for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy.
🇮🇳 🆚 🇳🇿#ChampionsTrophy 2025 Final 🤩
— ICC (@ICC) March 5, 2025
Dubai 📍 pic.twitter.com/mD112FDOIh
Scorecard:
New Zealand: 362/6, Overs 50, Rachin Ravindra 108, Lungi Ngidi 3/72
South Africa: 312/9, Overs 50, David Miller 100*, Mitchell Santner 3/43