Trophy: Kane Williamson & Rachi

New Zealand vs South Africa Semi-Final Highlights | ICC Champions Trophy 2025 | NZ vs SA Match Report

New Zealand stormed into the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Final with a clinical 50-run victory over South Africa, setting up a high-voltage clash against India. Kane Williamson and Rachin Ravindra showcased a batting masterclass, crafting a 164-run partnership that dismantled the Proteas’ bowling attack.

Kane-Rachin’s Tactical Brilliance Sets Up New Zealand’s Dominance

When Williamson arrived at the crease, the pitch in Karachi was already showing signs of slowing down. The Kiwi skipper adapted swiftly, adjusting his stroke play from conventional drives to delicate dabs and wristy flicks, ensuring his team built a formidable total.

Rachin Ravindra, on the other hand, was fluent from the start. South Africa’s short-ball ploy backfired as the young left-hander played exquisite pull shots. When the bowlers pitched it full, he drove with authority, punishing them through the covers.

Despite Lungi Ngidi’s slower balls offering some resistance, Keshav Maharaj’s disciplined spin, and early tight overs from Kagiso Rabada, the Kiwi batters dominated proceedings, taking the score to a massive 363-run total.

New Zealand’s Bowling Masterclass Crushes South Africa’s Chase

Chasing 363, South Africa’s top order crumbled under Mitchell Santner’s spin wizardry. While Temba Bavuma and Rassie van der Dussen tried to steady the innings with a 105-run stand, Williamson introduced Santner, who rattled the middle order.

• Van der Dussen’s off-stump was shattered by a gripping delivery.
• Bavuma miscued a shot, caught at backward point.
• Heinrich Klaasen fell victim to Santner’s turn, mistiming a shot to long-on.
• Aiden Markram’s soft dismissal to Rachin Ravindra sealed South Africa’s fate.

By the 33rd over, South Africa were 189/5, losing all hopes of a successful chase. Despite a late David Miller century, the game was already out of reach.

India vs New Zealand – The Ultimate Clash Awaits!

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With this commanding win, New Zealand now faces India in the ICC Champions Trophy Final. The Kiwis’ tactical brilliance, adaptability, and all-round execution make them India’s toughest challenge yet.

Stay tuned for the latest ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final updates, match analysis, and live scores!

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