South Africa‘s pursuit of an ICC trophy remains unfulfilled as New Zealand secured a commanding 50-run victory in the second semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 at Gaddafi Stadium. Despite a sensational century from David Miller, the Proteas fell short in their chase of 363, as New Zealand’s disciplined batting and bowling proved decisive.
Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson Power New Zealand to a Dominant Total
Electing to bat first, New Zealand posted a formidable 362/6 in 50 overs, fueled by brilliant centuries from Rachin Ravindra (108 off 101) and Kane Williamson (102 off 94). The duo built a match-defining partnership, dismantling South Africa’s bowling attack. Contributions from Daryl Mitchell (49 off 37) and Glenn Phillips (49 off 27) further bolstered the total. South Africa’s bowlers struggled, with Lungi Ngidi (3/72) and Kagiso Rabada (2/70) being the only notable performers.
David Miller’s Heroics Fall Short in South Africa’s Chase
Chasing 363, South Africa’s innings faltered despite valiant efforts from Temba Bavuma (56 off 71) and Rassie van der Dussen (69 off 66). David Miller shone with a scintillating century (100 off 67 balls, including 10 fours and 4 sixes), but the lack of support from the middle order left the Proteas stranded at 312/9.
Mitchell Santner Leads New Zealand’s Bowling Charge
The Kiwi bowlers were instrumental in sealing the victory. Mitchell Santner starred with a spell of 3/43, while Matt Henry (2/43) and Glenn Phillips (2/27) provided crucial breakthroughs. New Zealand’s all-round performance set up a final clash with India on March 9.
Also WATCH: SA vs NZ – Mitchell Santner cleans up Rassie van der Dussen with a jaffa in Champions Trophy 2025 semifinal
Fan Reactions:
So final is between INDIA vs NZ on 9th #ChampionsTrophy2025
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) March 5, 2025
Too Little, Too Late! David Miller’s blazing 100 off 67 goes in vain as New Zealand defeat South Africa by 50 runs to set up a final clash with India! #Cricket #SAvNZ #ChampionsTrophy2025 pic.twitter.com/vOn1zCmbBb
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) March 5, 2025
South Africa missed a trick. Too many pacers, bowling slower balls, they should have played Shamsi, a wrist spinner. New Zealand shows what spinners can do on flat track. Santner’s leadership too exceptional. #SAvNZ
— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) March 5, 2025
