Photo Courtesy: icc-cricket.com
March 6 2025 – Lahore
In the second semi-final of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, New Zealand secured a spot in the final by defeating South Africa by 50 runs at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
Photo Courtesy: icc-cricket.com
Opting to bat first, New Zealand posted a formidable total of 362/6. This impressive score was anchored by centuries from Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson, who built a crucial 164-run partnership for the second wicket. South Africa’s chase began with promise, with contributions from Rassie van der Dussen and Temba Bavuma, both hitting half-centuries. However, despite a valiant unbeaten 100 off 67 balls by David Miller, the fastest century in ICC champions trophy (Miller surpassed the previous record held by India’s Virender Sehwag (versus England at Colombo in 2002) and Australia’s wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis (versus England at Lahore in 2025), the Proteas fell short, managing 312/9 in their 50 overs.
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New Zealand’s bowlers, particularly captain Mitchell Santner, who took 3-43, played a pivotal role in restricting South Africa’s batting lineup. With this victory, New Zealand advances to the final, where they will face India, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion to the tournament.
