New Zealand advanced to the Champions Trophy final by defeating South Africa by 50 runs. They scored a record total of 362-6, led by centuries from Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson. South Africa responded with 312-9, despite David Miller’s century. New Zealand’s bowling and late batting power played critical roles in the victory, setting up a final against India.
New Zealand secured a spot in the Champions Trophy final by defeating South Africa by 50 runs in the semifinal held in Lahore. Batting first, New Zealand scored a tournament record of 362-6, thanks to significant contributions from Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson, both of whom scored centuries.
Rachin Ravindra struck a powerful 108 runs off 101 balls, while Kane Williamson contributed 102 runs from 94 balls. The pair dominated the South African bowling attack, forming a crucial partnership of 164 runs for the second wicket. They capitalized on a batting-friendly pitch, allowing the Black Caps to accelerate towards a massive total.
Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips further boosted the innings by scoring 49 runs each, particularly in the last ten overs where New Zealand added 110 runs. Mitchell finished with a quick-fire 49 off 37 balls, while Phillips remained not out with 49 runs off just 27 balls. South Africa’s bowlers struggled, with Lungi Ngidi taking 3-72 and Kagiso Rabada finishing with 2-70.
In response, South Africa’s batting faltered under pressure. Despite David Miller’s impressive unbeaten century of 100 off 67 balls and contributions from Rassie van der Dussen and Temba Bavuma, the team stumbled to 312-9. A critical collapse saw six wickets fall for just 57 runs, ending their chances of victory.
New Zealand’s captain, Mitchell Santner, led the bowling attack effectively, taking 3 wickets for 43 runs, while the overall bowling strategy proved vital in containing the South Africans. They will now prepare to face India in the final, where the trio of Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, and Virat Kohli is anticipated to set a challenging target.
New Zealand’s commanding win over South Africa in the Champions Trophy semifinal showcases their strong batting and effective bowling, positioning them well for the upcoming final against India. The batting duo of Ravindra and Williamson, combined with a solid contribution from Mitchell and Phillips, set a daunting target, while South Africa’s middle order collapse ultimately sealed their fate. New Zealand’s bowlers will need to remain resilient as they prepare for the formidable Indian batting lineup.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
