• New Zealand defeated South Africa in the semifinal of Champions Trophy 2025.

  • The Black Caps will meet India in the all-important final on March 09.

Twitter reactions: David Miller’s ton goes in vain as New Zealand thrash South Africa to setup final clash with India in Champions Trophy 2025
New Zealand beat South Africa in CT 2025 semifinal (Image Source: X)

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South Africa‘s wait for an ICC trophy continues as New Zealand stormed into the final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 with a commanding 50-run victory in the second semi-final at Gaddafi Stadium. Despite a stunning century from David Miller, the Proteas fell short in their chase of 363, as New Zealand’s clinical batting and disciplined bowling proved too strong.

Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson steer New Zealand to a massive total

Opting to bat first, the Black Caps posted a mammoth 362/6 in 50 overs, thanks to stunning centuries from Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson. Ravindra anchored the innings with a splendid 108 off 101 balls, while Williamson continued his classy touch with a 102 off 94 deliveries. The duo stitched together a match-defining partnership, dismantling the Proteas’ bowling attack. Contributions from Daryl Mitchell (49 off 37) and Glenn Phillips (49 off 27) added the finishing touches to an already imposing total.

South Africa’s bowlers found it tough to contain the flow of runs. Lungi Ngidi was the pick of the bowlers, bagging 3 wickets but conceding 72 runs. Kagiso Rabada (2/70) and Wiaan Mulder (1/48) chipped in with crucial breakthroughs, but Marco Jansen and Keshav Maharaj remained wicketless, allowing New Zealand to dominate.

David Miller’s heroics in vain as South Africa falls short

Chasing 363 for victory, South Africa started steadily but lost key wickets at regular intervals. Captain Temba Bavuma played a measured knock of 56 off 71 balls, while Rassie van der Dussen kept hopes alive with a well-crafted 69 off 66 deliveries. However, it was Miller who truly ignited the chase with a breathtaking century, smashing 100 off just 67 balls with 10 fours and 4 sixes. Despite his valiant effort, the rest of the batting lineup failed to provide the necessary support, and South Africa fell short at 312/9 in their 50 overs.

Mitchell Santner destroys Proteas’ batting order

The Kiwi bowlers ensured their team’s place in the final with disciplined bowling efforts. Mitchell Santner led the charge with a crucial spell of 3/43 in 10 overs, while Matt Henry (2/43) and Phillips (2/27) provided key breakthroughs at critical moments. Rachin also chipped in with a wicket, restricting South Africa’s middle order from capitalizing on Miller’s brilliance. New Zealand will now meet India in the final of the tournament on March 09.

Also WATCH: SA vs NZ – Mitchell Santner cleans up Rassie van der Dussen with a jaffa in Champions Trophy 2025 semifinal

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Also READ: SA vs NZ: Rachin Ravindra shatters Shikhar Dhawan’s long-standing record in ICC ODI Tournaments

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