Source Credit: ICC Cricket
Lahore: New Zealand stormed into the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final with a commanding victory over South Africa at Gaddafi Stadium. The Kiwis posted a record-breaking 362/6 the highest total in an ICC Men's ODI knockout match proving too much for the Proteas to chase.
Batting first, New Zealand openers Kane Williamson and Tom Latham led the charge with dominant performances, setting a new milestone for the highest total in an ICC ODI knockout match, South Africa Falls Short: Chasing 363, the Proteas struggled, managing only 264/9 in 45 overs. Despite David Miller’s fighting half-century, the team fell well short and Spin Magic: New Zealand’s spinners, Mitchell Santner and Michael Bracewell, played a pivotal role in dismantling South Africa’s batting lineup, securing a convincing win.
During the Post-match ceremony Mitchell Santner (New Zealand Captain): Santner lauded his team’s batting display, emphasizing the significance of building a solid foundation early in the innings. He expressed confidence in the squad and excitement about the upcoming final against India, Temba Bavuma (South Africa Captain): Bavuma admitted that New Zealand’s massive total was a tough challenge but commended his team’s effort. He stressed the importance of learning from high-pressure games and improving execution in future knockout matches.
New Zealand's qualification for the final is a major milestone as they chase their second Champions Trophy title. Their clash with India promises to be a thrilling contest, with both teams featuring formidable lineups and a history of intense battles.
According to ICC Cricket, this semi-final has set the stage for an electrifying tournament finale, with fans eagerly awaiting the title showdown in Dubai.
