Lahore, March 6 – The Champions Trophy 2025 final will witness a thrilling showdown between India and New Zealand, as the Kiwis stormed into the summit clash with a commanding 50-run victory over South Africa in the second semifinal at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium.
New Zealand’s dominant batting display, led by centurions Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson, proved too much for the Proteas, who once again saw their ICC title hopes shattered despite a valiant century from David Miller.
New Zealand’s Batting Blitz: Ravindra and Williamson Lead the Charge
Winning the toss and opting to bat first, New Zealand posted a mammoth 362/6 in 50 overs, capitalizing on a strong start and aggressive finishing.
- Will Young (21) provided a steady start before falling to Lungi Ngidi.
- Rachin Ravindra (108) and Kane Williamson (102) forged a 164-run stand for the second wicket, showcasing masterful stroke play against the South African attack.
- By the 40-over mark, New Zealand had already crossed the 250-run threshold, setting the stage for an explosive finish.
- Glenn Phillips (49 off 27 balls) and Daryl Mitchell (49 off 37 balls)* played key finishing roles, hammering the Proteas’ bowlers in the death overs to propel New Zealand past the 350-run mark.
Among South Africa’s bowlers, Lungi Ngidi (3/67) and Kagiso Rabada (2/73) made breakthroughs, while Wiaan Mulder (1/48) chipped in with a solitary wicket. However, they struggled to contain the onslaught from New Zealand’s middle order.
South Africa’s Chase Falters Despite Miller’s Heroics
Chasing a daunting target of 363, South Africa began on a positive note, with Temba Bavuma (56) and Rassie van der Dussen (69) keeping them in contention at 163/3 in the 27th over.
However, once Van der Dussen was bowled by Mitchell Santner, the innings crumbled under pressure, with wickets tumbling at regular intervals.
- David Miller (100 off 89 balls)* waged a lone battle, unleashing a flurry of boundaries in the final overs, including a 56-run stand for the last wicket.
- Despite his counterattack, South Africa fell short at 321/9 in 50 overs, unable to match New Zealand’s all-round brilliance.
New Zealand’s bowling unit ensured the Proteas never gained full momentum:
- Mitchell Santner (3/54) was the standout bowler, breaking crucial partnerships.
- Matt Henry (2/61) and Glenn Phillips (2/42) provided key breakthroughs.
- Michael Bracewell (1/38) and Rachin Ravindra (1/45) also contributed with disciplined spells.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
