The Kiwis are set to lock horns with the Men in Blue for the Champions Trophy on March 9 in Dubai. In a commanding display at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, New Zealand secured their spot in the ICC Champions Trophy final by defeating South Africa by 50 runs. The victory was anchored by a stellar century from Rachin Ravindra, setting up a much-anticipated final against India.
New Zealand opted to bat first after winning the toss and went on to score a formidable total of 362 for 6, making a record for the highest runs scored in the history of the ongoing tournament.
Rachin Ravindra’s smashing innings of 108 runs off 101 balls, including 13 fours and two sixes, was the highlight of today’s game. Along with captain Kane Williamson scoring a century from the non-striker’s end, a 164-run partnership between the two batsmen after the loss of the second wicket laid a solid foundation for the team.
Throughout the match, South African bowlers struggled to contain the Kiwi batsmen. Kagiso Rabada managed to claim crucial wickets, including that of Ravindra, but conceded 17 runs in an over during Ravindra’s onslaught. Lungi Ngidi and Marco Jansen also faced challenges, with Ngidi dropping a catch off Williamson, allowing the New Zealand captain to capitalise further.
The run chase proved to be on a shaky path for South African batsmen. With opener Ryan Rickelton losing his wicket early, the team struggled to build momentum. Despite half centuries from Temba Bavuma and Rassie Van Der Dussen, the required run rate kept rising.
David Miller played the role of lone warrior in today’s match by scoring a century off 67 balls. New Zealand’s spinners, particularly Mitchell Santner, took 3 wickets, which proved to be a major hindrance for a consistent run chase of the South Africans.
This triumph propels New Zealand into the final against India, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion to the tournament. Both teams have showcased exceptional skill and strategy throughout, promising a thrilling contest for cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
