New Zealand Vs. South Africa: 2nd Semi Final Match Details

In the second semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, held on March 5 at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, New Zealand secured a commanding 50-run victory over South Africa, earning a spot in the final against India.

Match Overview

• Venue: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
• Date: March 5, 2025
• Result: New Zealand won by 50 runs

New Zealand’s Innings

Opting to bat first, New Zealand posted a formidable total of 362 for 6, the highest in the tournament’s history. This achievement was anchored by stellar centuries from Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson.

Rachin Ravindra: Scored 108 runs off 101 balls, including 13 fours and a six. Remarkably, all five of his ODI centuries have come in ICC events.

Kane Williamson: Contributed 102 runs off 94 balls, with 10 fours and two sixes. His 164-run partnership with Ravindra for the second wicket was pivotal in setting up the massive total.

Late innings accelerations were provided by Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips, both scoring brisk 49s, propelling New Zealand to their record total.

South Africa’s Response

Chasing 363, South Africa managed 312 for 9 in their 50 overs. Despite valiant efforts from key batsmen, they fell short of the target.

David Miller: Played a remarkable unbeaten knock of 100 runs off 67 balls, featuring 10 fours and four sixes.

Temba Bavuma and Rassie van der Dussen: Both scored half-centuries, with Bavuma making 56 and van der Dussen 69, providing a solid foundation but unable to convert it into a match-winning effort.

New Zealand’s bowlers, led by captain Mitchell Santner, who took 3 wickets for 43 runs, applied consistent pressure, leading to regular wickets and stifling South Africa’s chase.

Captains’ Remarks

Mitchell Santner (New Zealand): Expressed elation over reaching the final, acknowledging the challenge posed by South Africa and praising his team’s performance.

Temba Bavuma (South Africa): Conceded that chasing 363 was daunting and lamented the lack of substantial partnerships, crediting New Zealand’s batsmen for setting a high target.

Looking Ahead

New Zealand will face India in the Champions Trophy final on March 9 in Dubai. India, having played all their matches in Dubai due to geopolitical reasons, will be familiar with the conditions. New Zealand, buoyed by their semi-final performance, will aim to clinch the title, setting the stage for an exciting finale.