Lahore: New Zealand defeated South Africa by 50 runs in the ICC Champions Trophy semi-final in Lahore, securing a place in the final against India.
Ravindra and Williamson Shine
Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson shined with centuries, leading New Zealand to a record 362-6. Ravindra’s 108 off 101 balls and Williamson’s 102 off 94 balls laid a strong foundation for the Black Caps. Their 164-run partnership for the second wicket was instrumental in setting a daunting target.
Daryl Mitchell (49 off 37) and Glenn Phillips (49* off 27) added finishing touches as New Zealand scored 110 runs in the last 10 overs. South African bowlers struggled, with Lungi Ngidi taking 3-72 and Kagiso Rabada picking up 2-70.
South Africa Falls Short
In response, South Africa managed 312-9, falling well short of the target. David Miller’s unbeaten 100 off 67 balls was a valiant effort, but the Proteas never looked in control.
Bavuma (56) and Van der Dussen (69) added 105, but Santner (3-43) broke their momentum. Santner’s key breakthroughs, including Heinrich Klaasen for just three, ensured South Africa’s chase never took off. Ravindra (1-20) and Phillips (2-27) also contributed with the ball.
Travel Troubles and Tournament Controversy
This semi-final marked the last Champions Trophy match in Pakistan. Due to India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan, the final will be held in Dubai. The tournament’s schedule has drawn criticism, with accusations that it favored India. Both New Zealand and South Africa had to endure a demanding travel schedule due to these changes.
South Africa had to take an unnecessary trip to Dubai before returning to Lahore, a move that captain Bavuma subtly criticized. The Proteas were looking to shed their ‘chokers’ tag but fell short in yet another ICC knockout game, marking their fifth Champions Trophy semi-final defeat.
A Familiar Final
New Zealand is set to battle India in the Champions Trophy final. The Black Caps have been consistent in ICC events, reaching the finals of the 2015 and 2019 ODI World Cups and the 2021 World Test Championship. They will be aiming to end their title drought.
Meanwhile, despite reaching the semi-finals of multiple ICC tournaments, South Africa has not won a major white-ball title since their 1998 Champions Trophy triumph.
With New Zealand in top form and India looking to assert their dominance, the final promises to be an electrifying contest.
