New Zealand secured their place in the final of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 after defeating South Africa by 50 runs in the second semifinal at the historic Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. With this victory, they will now face India in the highly anticipated final.
Chasing a challenging target of 363, South Africa fell short, managing 312/9 in their allotted 50 overs. Despite a sensational unbeaten 100 from David Miller, South Africa struggled to keep up with the required run rate, as New Zealand’s bowlers, led by Mitchell Santner, Matt Henry, and Glenn Phillips, delivered under pressure.
South Africa’s Struggles in the Chase
South Africa’s chase got off to a poor start, losing both openers cheaply. Ryan Rickelton (17) was dismissed by Matt Henry in the fifth over, caught by Michael Bracewell at fine leg. Captain Temba Bavuma (56) looked promising, but Mitchell Santner struck twice in quick succession, dismissing Rassie van der Dussen (69) and Heinrich Klaasen (3).
Bavuma’s innings ended when he edged one behind off Santner in the 23rd over, leaving South Africa struggling at 125/3. Santner’s spell of 3/43 was instrumental in dismantling South Africa’s batting lineup at crucial moments. New Zealand’s spinners continued to control the game, tightening their grip on the contest.
While wickets fell around him, David Miller stood firm, playing a breathtaking knock of 100 off 67 balls*, laced with 10 fours and 4 sixes. His aggressive stroke play kept South Africa’s hopes alive, but with little support from the other end, his valiant effort wasn’t enough to pull off a win.
Miller shared a decent stand with Aiden Markram (31), but once Markram fell to Rachin Ravindra in the 33rd over, South Africa’s middle order collapsed. Wiaan Mulder (8), Marco Jansen (3), Keshav Maharaj (1), and Kagiso Rabada (16) struggled to build partnerships, as the required run rate continued to climb.
New Zealand’s Bowlers Shine
New Zealand’s bowlers played a key role in their triumph, striking at regular intervals to maintain control. Matt Henry (2/43) was impressive early on, dismissing Rickelton and Rabada, while the spin trio of Santner (3/43), Ravindra (1/20), and Phillips (2/27) effectively contained South Africa’s scoring in the middle overs.
Glenn Phillips provided the finishing touches with two crucial wickets in the 47th and 48th overs, removing Marco Jansen and Keshav Maharaj, shutting down any slim hopes of a South African comeback. With South Africa at 256/9 in the 46th over, the match was virtually decided, and New Zealand comfortably wrapped up the innings by the 50th over.
New Zealand’s Batting Powerhouse
Earlier, New Zealand posted a commanding 362/6, thanks to centuries from Rachin Ravindra (108) and Kane Williamson (102). Their 164-run stand for the second wicket set the perfect foundation for a big total. Contributions from Daryl Mitchell (49) and Glenn Phillips (49)* in the final overs ensured that New Zealand finished on a high.
The Road to the Final
This victory showcased New Zealand’s all-round strength, with both their batters and bowlers delivering under pressure. Overcoming a strong South African bowling attack and keeping their composure in a high-stakes match has cemented them as serious contenders for the Champions Trophy title.
With this dominant performance, New Zealand will now take on India in the final, a clash that promises to be a thrilling contest between two in-form teams. Cricket fans can look forward to an electrifying showdown as both teams vie for the prestigious trophy.
