New Zealand Blasts 362/6 to Push South Africa to the Brink in Champions Trophy Semi-Final Showdown
In a thrilling semi-final showdown at the 2025 Champions Trophy in Lahore, New Zealand posted a massive 362/6 in their 50 overs against South Africa, setting the stage for a high-stakes chase. A stellar 164-run partnership between Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson powered the Kiwis to dominance, while their explosive finish of 111 runs in the last 10 overs left South Africa with a mountain to climb. With a spot in the final on the line, both teams showcased their hunger for glory in this crucial match following India’s victory over Australia in the other semi-final yesterday.
The match kicked off with New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner winning the toss and opting to bat first under clear skies in Lahore. The decision paid off as the Kiwis built a formidable total, driven by a masterful display of batting from Ravindra and Williamson. The duo stitched together a 164-run stand off 154 balls, frustrating South Africa’s bowling attack in the middle overs. Ravindra, in particular, shone brightly, scoring a brilliant 108 off 101 balls—his fifth ODI century, all of which have come in ICC tournaments. His innings was brought to an end in the 34th over by South Africa’s ace pacer Kagiso Rabada, but not before New Zealand had gained a solid foothold in the game.
South Africa had started well, keeping New Zealand’s scoring rate in check early on. The Kiwis lost opener Will Young in the eighth over, but Ravindra and Williamson’s steady partnership ensured they didn’t lose momentum. The pair rotated the strike cleverly, tiring out the South African bowlers and setting the stage for a late onslaught. The final 10 overs saw New Zealand unleash their firepower, plundering 111 runs to finish at an imposing 362/6.
Both teams entered this semi-final with strong credentials. South Africa, led by Temba Bavuma, topped Group B with two wins and a draw, adapting well to the conditions in Pakistan with convincing performances against Afghanistan and England. Their campaign, however, was marred by a rain-affected match against Australia. The Proteas are now eyeing a chance to face India in the final, hoping to recreate their T20 World Cup final appearance from last year.
New Zealand, meanwhile, had a strong run in the group stage, starting with a dominant win over hosts Pakistan. Despite a setback against India in their final group match, the Kiwis have shown they can handle pressure. Their confidence was further boosted by a six-wicket victory over a weakened South Africa side in a tri-series match in Lahore last month. With a balanced attack of spinners and pacers suited to the local conditions, New Zealand are determined to secure a rematch with India in the final and settle the score from their earlier defeat.
South Africa, however, face challenges off the field as well. Vice-captain Aiden Markram suffered a right hamstring injury during their last group game against England and has been sidelined since the 31st over of that match. The team has brought in left-arm spinning all-rounder George Linde as a replacement, but they remain hopeful Markram can recover in time for the final if they advance. On a brighter note, captain Temba Bavuma and opener Tony de Zorzi have overcome recent illnesses and were back in training ahead of this crucial semi-final.