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The Champions Trophy 2025 has entered its most exciting phase with New Zealand set to clash against South Africa in the second semi-finals of the Champions Trophy 2025. The Black-Caps were the first team to enter the semi-finals of the tournament. New Zealand defeated Pakistan and Bangladesh in the first two group stage encounters. South Africa, on the other hand, managed to dominate Afghanistan and England in the group stage to secure the top-spot. Their second match against Australia was abandoned due to rain.
NZ vs SA Head-to-Head Record in ODIs
Matches played: 73 | New Zealand won : 26 | South Africa won: 42 | No result: 5
ODI Stats and Records at Lahore
- Total matches: 76
- Matches won batting first: 38
- Matches won bowling first: 36
- Average 1st Inns scores: 255
- Average 2nd Inns scores: 220
- Highest total recorded: 375/3 (50 overs) by Pakistan vs Zimbabwe
- Lowest total recorded: 75/10 (22.5 Overs) by Pakistan vs Sri Lanka
- Highest score chased: 356/5 (47.3 Overs) by Australia vs England
- Lowest score defended: 170/8 (40 Overs) by West Indies vs Pakistan
Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Simon Doull shares a furious remark at Ravindra Jadeja for controversial celebration after Tom Latham’s dismissal
Gaddafi Stadium Pitch Report
The pitch is anticipated to be a batter’s dream, offering consistent bounce and excellent carry, which will reward aggressive stroke play. Early on, fast bowlers may find some movement and seam, but their impact is likely to wane as the surface settles. As the game progresses and the pitch loses its initial moisture, the conditions will become increasingly favorable for the set batters, making run-scoring easier. However, as the track begins to dry, spinners could come into their own, extracting significant turn and bounce, particularly in the later stages of the match. The slow nature of the wicket towards the end could challenge batters with variable spin and occasional grip. Overall, a high-scoring contest is expected, with spinners potentially playing a pivotal role in the latter half of the game.
