New Zealand delivered a record-breaking performance in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final, posting 362/6 against South Africa. Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson's centuries anchored the innings, while Glenn Phillips provided a late flourish. South Africa struggled in their chase, allowing New Zealand to secure a dominant victory and advance to the final.
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In a historic semi-final clash of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, New Zealand showcased a stellar performance against South Africa, setting a record total of 362/6. Central to this achievement were remarkable centuries from Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson, which not only anchored the innings but also set the tone for a commanding victory. South Africa's response was met with early setbacks, paving the way for New Zealand's advancement to the tournament's final.
Rachin Ravindra delivered a masterclass in batting, scoring 108 runs off 101 balls. His innings was adorned with 13 fours and a six, providing New Zealand with a solid foundation. Ravindra's ability to rotate the strike and find boundaries at crucial junctures kept the South African bowlers at bay. His partnership with Kane Williamson was instrumental in building a formidable total.
Kane Williamson complemented Ravindra's efforts with a sublime 102 off 91 balls. His innings included 10 fours and two sixes, demonstrating his class and experience. Williamson's ability to accelerate the scoring rate during the middle overs put additional pressure on the South African bowlers, who struggled to find breakthroughs.
The combined efforts of Ravindra and Williamson propelled New Zealand to a total of 362/6, the highest ever recorded in Champions Trophy history. This surpassed the previous record held by Australia and underscored New Zealand's dominance in the match.
Chasing a daunting target, South Africa's innings was derailed by early wickets. The dismissals of key players like Temba Bavuma and Ryan Rickelton within the powerplay left South Africa reeling. The mounting required run rate added to the pressure, leading to further mistakes and a collapse of the batting order.
In the final overs, Glenn Phillips played a crucial role by scoring an unbeaten 49 off 27 balls. His aggressive approach ensured that New Zealand capitalized on the foundation laid by the top order, pushing the total beyond South Africa's reach.
South Africa's bowlers faced a tough day on the field, with key bowlers like Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen conceding runs at an alarming rate. Their inability to contain New Zealand's batsmen or take timely wickets contributed significantly to the record total.
With this comprehensive victory, New Zealand has secured its place in the Champions Trophy final. The team's all-round performance, highlighted by stellar batting and disciplined bowling, makes them strong contenders for the title.
New Zealand's emphatic win over South Africa in the semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is a testament to their preparation, skill, and execution. Centuries from Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson laid the foundation for a record-breaking total, while the bowlers complemented the effort by dismantling South Africa's chase early on. As New Zealand advances to the final, they carry the momentum and confidence of a team peaking at the right time, ready to challenge for the coveted trophy.
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