NEW DELHI: New Zealand stormed into the Champions Trophy final with a commanding 50-run victory over South Africa in the semifinal on Wednesday, setting up a high-stakes showdown against India.
Electing to bat first, the Kiwis posted a formidable 362/6, powered by brilliant centuries from Rachin Ravindra (108 off 101) and Kane Williamson (102 off 94). Their well-paced innings, punctuated with crisp boundaries and smart strike rotation, laid the perfect foundation for a daunting total.
South Africa began their chase with promise but struggled to maintain momentum, losing wickets at crucial junctures. Despite a valiant unbeaten century from David Miller (100*), along with contributions from Temba Bavuma (56) and Rassie van der Dussen (69), the Proteas ultimately fell short, managing 312/9 in their 50 overs.
Mitchell Santner (3/43) led New Zealand’s bowling attack, while Glenn Phillips (2/27) and Matt Henry (2/43) provided key breakthroughs to stifle South Africa’s run chase.
Earlier, Ravindra’s fluent 108, featuring 13 fours and a six, and Williamson’s classy 102, laced with 10 fours and two maximums, steered New Zealand to a massive total. Daryl Mitchell (49) and Glenn Phillips (49*) delivered strong finishes in the final overs, ensuring the Proteas faced a steep challenge.
Brief Scores:
New Zealand: 362/6 in 50 overs (Rachin Ravindra 108, Kane Williamson 102; Lungi Ngidi 3/72)
South Africa: 312/9 in 50 overs (David Miller 100*, Rassie van der Dussen 69, Temba Bavuma 56; Mitchell Santner 3/43, Glenn Phillips 2/27, Matt Henry 2/43)
