Champions Trophy 2025: India to face New Zealand in final after Kiwis post commanding win over South Africa in semis

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New Zealand stormed into the Champions Trophy 2025 final with a dominant 50-run victory over South Africa in Lahore on Wednesday. Their commanding performance with both bat and ball ensured a title clash against India, setting up an intriguing finale to the tournament.

Batting first at the Gaddafi Stadium, the Black Caps posted a formidable total of 362/6, powered by exceptional centuries from Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson.

Ravindra's fluent 108 off 101 balls, decorated with 13 boundaries and a six, set the platform for New Zealand's innings. Captain Williamson anchored the middle overs with a classy 102 from 94 deliveries, dispatching 10 fours and two sixes to keep the momentum intact.

Despite a disciplined effort from South Africa's bowlers, including Lungi Ngidi's 3/72, New Zealand's batters kept the scoreboard ticking. Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips played crucial supporting roles, both scoring 49, ensuring their team reached a total that put immense pressure on the Proteas.

In response, South Africa's chase began with promise as Temba Bavuma and Rassie van der Dussen put together vital contributions of 56 and 69, respectively. However, a middle-order collapse derailed their efforts. Even though David Miller fought valiantly with an unbeaten century (100*), wickets at regular intervals meant the Proteas struggled to keep up with the required rate. They ultimately finished at 312/9 after 50 overs.

New Zealand's bowling attack, led by Mitchell Santner's impressive 3/43, stifled South Africa's hopes of a comeback. Glenn Phillips (2/27) and Matt Henry (2/43) played their part, striking at crucial moments to tighten the screws on the Proteas' batting lineup.

With this win, New Zealand secured their spot in the Champions Trophy final, where they will meet India, who had earlier sealed their place in the summit clash. The much-anticipated final promises a thrilling contest between two well-balanced teams aiming for silverware on Sunday.