In a dominating effort on Wednesday, New Zealand defeated South Africa by 50 runs to seal a berth in the final of the Champions Trophy in Dubai against India. This is the second back-to-back major ICC tournament where Proteas have made it to the knockouts but failed to convert it into a trophy. Last time, South Africa had failed to win the T20 World Cup final against India in 2024.
South Africa vs New Zealand highlights
Opting to bat first, New Zealand rode on Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson’s fluent centuries to score a mammoth 362/6. In reply, South Africa could only manage 312/9 in 50 overs despite an unbeaten century from David Miller.
Rachin Ravindra produced a 101-ball, 108-run knock that was laced with 13 fours and a six, while Kane Williamson smashed 102 off 94 balls with 10 fours and two maximums. Daryl Mitchell (49) and Glenn Phillips (49 not out) provided the fireworks in the slog overs.
The Proteas seemed to be on course in the initial part of their run chase, but they stumbled later on, losing wickets in the middle overs, and eventually lost their way. Captain Temba Bavuma (56) and Rassie van der Dussen (69) also struck half-centuries, but those were not enough to take them home.
Captain Mitchell Santner once again shone with the ball, taking three wickets for 43 runs in a match where both teams scored over 300 runs. Meanwhile, Glenn Phillips also showcased his all-round talent with two wickets for 27 runs in his three overs, and Matt Henry continued his good form with two wickets for 43 runs in his seven overs.
When and where is New Zealand’s next match
New Zealand will now face India in the final of the Champions Trophy at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday, March 9. The Kiwis have a good record against the Men in Blue in recent times, having beaten them 3-0 at home in Test cricket. However, India had the better of Mitchell Santner’s side in the league stage of the Champions Trophy.
