New Zealand stormed into the ICC Champions Trophy final after a dominant 50-run victory over South Africa in Lahore. Centuries from Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson powered the Black Caps to a record-breaking total of 362 for six, setting up a high-stakes clash against India in Dubai.
Winning the toss and electing to bat, New Zealand’s top order made the most of the conditions. Will Young fell early for 21, but that only paved the way for a match-defining partnership between Ravindra and Williamson. The duo added 164 runs at a brisk pace, with both batters maintaining a strike rate above a run per ball. Ravindra played a sparkling knock of 108, laced with 13 boundaries and a six, while Williamson anchored the innings with 102, including two sixes and 10 fours.
A crucial moment in the game came when Heinrich Klaasen dropped Williamson on 56, a costly mistake that allowed the New Zealand skipper to press on. The breakthrough finally came in the 34th over when Kagiso Rabada dismissed Ravindra, but by then, the platform had been firmly set. Williamson reached his 15th ODI century with a clever ramp shot before falling to Wiaan Mulder shortly after.
With 10 overs remaining, the Black Caps pressed the accelerator, adding 110 runs in a late onslaught. Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips provided the finishing touches, each contributing rapid 49s to propel their side to an imposing total.
Chasing 363 for victory, South Africa made a promising start and looked in contention at 125 for one. Temba Bavuma led from the front with 56, while Rassie van der Dussen kept the scoreboard ticking with a well-made 69. However, the momentum shifted decisively when left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner took charge with the ball. Santner’s spell proved to be the turning point as he removed Bavuma, Van der Dussen, and the dangerous Klaasen, who managed only three runs.
Wickets continued to fall at regular intervals, making South Africa’s task increasingly difficult. Despite a lone hand from David Miller, who reached an unbeaten century off the last ball of the match, his efforts were never enough to challenge the Black Caps’ total. South Africa ended on 312 for nine, well short of their target.
Santner was the pick of the bowlers, finishing with figures of three for 43, ensuring New Zealand maintained control throughout the second innings. With this commanding win, the Black Caps now set their sights on Sunday’s final against India, a rematch of the 2000 Champions Trophy final, where New Zealand emerged victorious.
With confidence soaring and key players in top form, New Zealand will be eager to claim another ICC title, while India will be equally determined to spoil their party in what promises to be a thrilling finale in Dubai.
