Dubai — New Zealand stormed into the Champions Trophy final with a commanding 50-run victory over South Africa in the semifinal held at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on Wednesday.
The Kiwis’ batting line-up delivered a record-breaking performance, posting the highest-ever total in the tournament’s history with 362-6, propelled by centuries from Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson.
New Zealand will now face tournament favourites India in the final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday, March 9.
India advanced to the title clash by defeating Australia by four wickets in the first semifinal on Tuesday, highlighted by a crucial half-century from star batter Virat Kohli.
Ravindra and Williamson Shine Bright
Winning the toss and opting to bat first, New Zealand’s openers set the tone with an aggressive start. Rachin Ravindra’s 101-ball 108 and Kane Williamson’s 102 off 94 balls anchored the innings.
The duo’s partnership of 164 runs for the second wicket left South Africa’s bowlers struggling to regain control.
Ravindra reached his fifth ODI century — all scored in ICC events — with a neat two off Kagiso Rabada, while Williamson notched his 15th ODI hundred with a ramped boundary, marking his third consecutive century against South Africa.
Ravindra’s knock featured 13 boundaries and a six, while Williamson’s innings was studded with 10 fours and two sixes. The South African bowlers faced a torrid time, with Kagiso Rabada conceding 70 runs for his two wickets and Lungi Ngidi finishing with 3-72.
Late Onslaught Boosts Record Total
After the dismissals of Ravindra and Williamson, Daryl Mitchell (49 off 37) and Glenn Phillips (49 not out off 27) unleashed a late assault, adding 110 runs in the last 10 overs, including 66 off the final five.
Their aggressive stroke play thwarted South Africa’s attempts to contain the score below 350. Phillips, in particular, was ruthless in the death overs, smashing boundaries with ease to ensure New Zealand posted a daunting target.
The total of 362-6 eclipsed the previous Champions Trophy record of 356-5, set by Australia in a successful chase against England during the group stages in Lahore.
South Africa’s Response Falls Short
Chasing a mammoth target, South Africa’s batting line-up struggled to keep pace. A combination of disciplined New Zealand bowling and mounting scoreboard pressure resulted in regular wickets, preventing any substantial partnerships from developing.
Despite a few flashes of resistance, South Africa’s innings folded well short of the target, sealing New Zealand’s 50-run win and a place in the final.
Title Showdown with India
The Kiwis’ emphatic win sets the stage for a thrilling final against India, a side brimming with confidence after overcoming Australia in their semifinal clash.
India’s formidable batting line-up, spearheaded by Virat Kohli, will test New Zealand’s bowling attack in what promises to be a blockbuster encounter in Dubai.
With both teams in scintillating form, cricket fans can expect an electrifying finale as New Zealand seeks to lift their maiden Champions Trophy, while India eyes another prestigious title to their decorated cabinet.