New Zealand delivered a commanding performance to defeat South Africa, securing their spot in the ICC Champions Trophy final against India, scheduled for March 9 in Dubai.
Batting first, New Zealand posted an imposing total of 362/6 in 50 overs, led by centuries from Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson. The team got off to a solid start with a 48-run opening stand between Will Young and Ravindra before Young fell to Lungi Ngidi for 21 off 23 balls in the eighth over.
Williamson then joined Ravindra at the crease, and the duo built a crucial 164-run partnership. Ravindra top-scored with 108 off 101 balls, hitting 13 fours and a six before being dismissed in the 34th over. Williamson, who added 102 runs from 94 deliveries with 10 fours and two sixes, formed a brief 39-run stand with Daryl Mitchell before losing his wicket.
Mitchell and Glenn Phillips provided late acceleration, scoring 49 runs each, while Michael Bracewell chipped in with a quick 16 off 12 balls. Ngidi was South Africa’s standout bowler, taking three wickets for 72 runs, while Kagiso Rabada claimed two scalps.
In response, South Africa struggled against New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack. Captain Mitchell Santner led from the front, taking three wickets, while Matt Henry, Michael Bracewell, and Rachin Ravindra secured one wicket each, restricting South Africa’s chase and sealing New Zealand’s place in the final.
Playing XIs
South Africa: Ryan Rickelton, Temba Bavuma(c), Rassie van der Dussen, Heinrich Klaasen(w), David Miller, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi
New Zealand: Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham(w), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner(c), Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, William O’Rourke
