Wed Mar 05 16:30:21 UTC 2025: ## New Zealand on the Brink of Champions Trophy Final After Dominant Display Against South Africa
**Lahore, Pakistan** – New Zealand are poised to reach the final of the Champions Trophy 2025 after a commanding performance against South Africa in the semi-final at Gaddafi Stadium. Centuries from Kane Williamson (102) and Rachin Ravindra (108) propelled New Zealand to a formidable 362/6. Williamson’s knock was particularly significant, marking his 19,000th international run – a first for a New Zealand batter. The pair’s 164-run second-wicket partnership laid the foundation for New Zealand’s imposing total, further boosted by contributions from Daryl Mitchell (49) and Glenn Phillips (49*).
South Africa face a monumental task in their chase, currently reeling at 273/x (with x wickets down) and needing a near-impossible run rate of over 10 runs per over. David Miller remains their only realistic hope of a comeback. The match remains live, with the Kiwis firmly in control.
First Piper 