NZ overpower SA to make Champions Trophy final
ICC Champions Trophy semi-final, Lahore
- New Zealand 362-6 (50 overs): Ravindra 108 (101), Williamson 102 (94); Ngidi 3-72
- South Africa 312-9 (50 overs): Miller 100* (67), Van der Dussen 69 (66); Santner 3-43
New Zealand Scorecard in Semi-Final
New Zealand powered their way into the Champions Trophy final with a thumping 50-run win over South Africa after centuries from Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson.
The Black Caps opted to bat first in Lahore and posted a tournament-record 362-6 in a superbly paced one-day innings. It was built on a 164-run partnership for the second wicket between Ravindra and Williamson, who registered their fifth and 15th ODI hundreds respectively. Despite both falling shortly after reaching three figures, New Zealand kept going and plundered 110 runs from the final 10 overs thanks to the big-hitting of Daryl Mitchell, who made 49 from 37 balls, and Glenn Phillips, who finished unbeaten on 49 from 27.
Bavuma and van der Dussen’s Solid Partnership
Facing a challenging target on a particularly friendly pitch to the batters, South Africa tried to replicate the New Zealand approach. The chase began promisingly, with Proteas captain Temba Bavuma and Rassie van der Dussen forming a solid partnership of 105 runs for the second wicket. However, unlike Ravindra and Williamson, they were unable to build on their performance. New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner removed both Bavuma and van der Dussen, along with the dangerous Heinrich Klaasen, during an impressive spell of bowling in the middle overs.
David Miller’s Fighting Century
As the required run rate increased rapidly, South Africa faced the challenge of maintaining an aggressive approach but continued to lose wickets. Despite David Miller achieving a century off 67 balls on the final delivery of the match, South Africa concluded their innings at 312-9. Meanwhile, New Zealand is set to travel to Dubai to compete against India in the final on Sunday, aiming to secure their second ICC white-ball title, 25 years after claiming their only championship.
Conclusion
New Zealand showcased a dominant performance to secure their place in the Champions Trophy final with a convincing 50-run victory over South Africa. Brilliant centuries from Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson set the foundation for a massive total of 362-6, while disciplined bowling, led by Mitchell Santner, ensured that South Africa fell short despite David Miller’s heroic century. The Black Caps will now face India in Dubai, aiming to clinch their second ICC white-ball title, 25 years after their first triumph.
FAQ’s
Who won the semi-final between New Zealand and South Africa?
New Zealand won the match by 50 runs to advance to the Champions Trophy final.
Who were the top performers in New Zealand?
Rachin Ravindra (108) and Kane Williamson (102) scored centuries, while Mitchell Santner took 3 wickets to dismantle South Africa’s chase.
How did South Africa perform in the chase?
Despite strong efforts from Rassie van der Dussen (69) and David Miller (100*), South Africa fell short, finishing at 312-9.
Where will the Champions Trophy final take place?
The final will be held in Dubai, where New Zealand will face India.
