New Zealand secured a spot in the Champions Trophy final after a commanding 50-run victory over South Africa in the second semifinal at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, today (March 5).
The Kiwis will now face India in the grand finale at Dubai on Sunday.
On the back of centuries from Kane Williamson and Rachin Ravindra, New Zealand posted an imposing total of 362/6 in their 50 overs.
Ravindra's explosive 108 off 101 balls and Williamson's composed 102 off 94 deliveries laid the foundation for the massive score. Glenn Phillips' late blitz of 49* off 27 balls further propelled the Black Caps to a dominant total.
South Africa, despite a valiant century from David Miller (100* off 67), fell short in their chase, managing 312/9 in their 50 overs.
The Proteas got off to a rocky start, losing Ryan Rickelton early, but skipper Temba Bavuma (56) and Rassie van der Dussen (69) steadied the innings.
However, New Zealand's disciplined bowling, led by Mitchell Santner (3/43) and Matt Henry (2/43), ensured the required rate kept mounting, leaving Miller with too much to do at the end.
With this victory, New Zealand continued their dominance over South Africa in ICC knockout encounters, having previously beaten them in the 2011 and 2015 World Cup semifinals.
The Kiwis will now take on India in the final in Dubai, setting up an exciting clash between two of the world's best ODI teams.
India had earlier secured their place in the summit clash with a win over Australia in the first semifinal on Tuesday.
BDST: 2257 HRS, MAR 05, 2025
SMS
