South Africa will meet New Zealand in the semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 today (March 5) in Lahore, aiming for a spot in Sunday’s final.

Both teams are chasing a long-awaited Champions Trophy victory, with South Africa having won the tournament in 1998, while New Zealand's only title came in 2000. 

This encounter also serves as a high-stakes rematch, after the two sides met just last month in a Tri-series at the same venue, where New Zealand triumphed by six wickets. 

However, South Africa were missing several key players, and tournament cricket often brings a different level of intensity.

Both teams have demonstrated in the group stages that they are capable of going all the way. The match will likely be decided by key moments and performances.

Squads:

South Africa: Temba Bavuma (c), Tony de Zorzi, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs, Rassie van der Dussen, Corbin Bosch. Travelling reserve: Kwena Maphaka.

New Zealand: Mitchell Santner (c), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Nathan Smith, Kane Williamson, Will Young, Jacob Duffy.

South Africa have cruised through the tournament so far, with a 107-run victory over Afghanistan and a dominant seven-wicket win over England in their final group match. 

Their biggest test, however, was an abandoned match against Australia due to weather. The semi-final will be their toughest challenge yet.

New Zealand had been on a five-match ODI winning streak before falling to India in the Group A decider on Sunday. 

Their all-round strength has been evident throughout the tournament, and they will look to bounce back strongly.

Source: BBC

BDST: 0917 HRS, MAR 05, 2025
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