The second semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 saw New Zealand once again rise to the occasion in a high-stakes match, defeating South Africa by a comfortable margin in Lahore. With this emphatic win, the Black Caps booked their spot in the grand finale against India, set to be played in Dubai on March 9.
Background: A History Repeating for South Africa
South Africa’s nightmare in ICC semi-finals continues. With this latest loss, their record now stands at just one win from 11 semi-final appearances in ODI tournaments, further reinforcing the unfortunate “chokers” tag. Their only semi-final victory came back in 1998 against Sri Lanka.
David Miller played a valiant innings, smashing a blistering century off just 67 balls — the fastest in Champions Trophy history. However, his efforts proved insufficient as the rest of the South African lineup failed to provide the necessary support. The bowling too lacked teeth, especially in the spin department, with only Keshav Maharaj posing any real threat.
New Zealand’s Complete Performance
New Zealand have once again proven why they are the dark horses in ICC tournaments. Their batters came out all guns blazing, with Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson laying a solid foundation. The duo stitched together a crucial partnership, with Williamson once again showcasing his class in knockout games with yet another century.
Rachin Ravindra, who was named Player of the Match, acknowledged the tough start against Marco Jansen and Lungi Ngidi but praised his partnerships with Young and Williamson as turning points. Once the initial threat was countered, the Kiwis shifted gears, reaching a formidable 360.
Bowling Efforts: Spin Triumphs Over Pace
New Zealand’s spinners were the standout performers with the ball, collectively picking up 7 wickets for 143 runs in 28 overs — a remarkable effort in a high-pressure match. Captain Mitchell Santner led from the front with three crucial wickets, supported ably by Michael Bracewell and the rest of their all-rounders.
In contrast, South Africa’s lack of quality spin options proved to be their Achilles’ heel. Their pace-heavy attack struggled to contain the Kiwi batters, especially during the death overs, where Mitchell and Phillips piled on the runs.
Captain Reactions
Mitchell Santner, the New Zealand captain, lauded his team’s all-round display. “It was a pretty good feeling, especially the way Rachin and Kane set the platform. The middle-overs bowling was spot-on, and that helped us control the game,” he said.
Temba Bavuma, the South African skipper, admitted that the 360-run target was beyond reach. “We had partnerships but none of us were able to emulate what their top order did. That cost us. We needed to be more ruthless and seize key moments,” he conceded.
Statistical Highlights
- Fastest century in Champions Trophy history: David Miller (67 balls)
- First time three centuries were scored in a Champions Trophy match
- New Zealand’s 7 consecutive ODI wins in Pakistan: equals India’s record
- South Africa’s ICC ODI semi-final record: 1 win, 9 losses, 1 tie
Final Showdown: India vs New Zealand
The result sets up a blockbuster final between India and New Zealand. While India have looked dominant throughout the tournament and are familiar with the Dubai conditions, their historical struggles against New Zealand in ICC knockouts add an intriguing layer of unpredictability to the clash.
With both teams in fine form and packed with match-winners, fans can expect a thrilling contest on March 9. Will India finally break their jinx against New Zealand in knockouts, or will the Black Caps continue their underdog magic?
Category: Cricket News, ICC Champions Trophy, Sports Highlights
Tags: New Zealand cricket, South Africa cricket, Champions Trophy 2025, semi-final, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, David Miller, ICC tournaments, CT 2025 final, India vs New Zealand
