Champions trophy 2025: New Zealand storms into finals after beating South Africa

It was an enthralling match between New Zealand and South Africa in the second ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final; played at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore! New Zealand took the prize, winning by 50 runs, thus advancing to the final. Chasing a mammoth target of 363 runs set by New Zealand was not easy despite South Africa's efforts. South Africa managed to score just 312 runs for 9 wickets in their 50 overs. David Miller scored a brilliant century of 100 runs

Match highlights

South Africa, however, gained the title of "chokers" once again, knowing this was an important game to win. South Africa started their chase shakily and quickly lost Rickelton, whose contribution was 17. Matt Henry made a starred overview with his dismissal in the 5th over and with Bracewell at short leg to make the catch. 

Captain Temba Bavuma and Rassie van der Dussen stabilized the innings with a strong 105-run partnership. Bavuma contributed 56 runs to the scoreboard before being caught by Mitchell Santner. But the middle order fell apart, thus leaving all the pressure on miller, and despite him making a century, wickets continued to tumble across the other side. 

New Zealand's dominance

New Zealand relied mainly on their aggressive bowling attack, supported by Matt Henry and Mitchell Santner. Their focus exerted so much pressure that South Africa failed to find any rhythm while chasing. This win is what gives New Zealand quite the momentum heading into the final against India.

Final showdown: India vs New Zealand

India were piloted to the final by captain Rohit Sharma after defeating Australia by four wickets in the first semi-final. The final is set for March 9 and promises to be an explosive clash between two of cricket's best sides.