Wed Mar 05 09:50:00 UTC 2025: **New Zealand Post Century Stand to Dominate South Africa in Champions Trophy Semifinal**
LAHORE, PAKISTAN – New Zealand dominated the first innings of their Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final clash against South Africa at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore today. Winning the toss and electing to bat first, New Zealand posted a strong score, largely thanks to a magnificent century partnership.
Rachin Ravindra anchored the innings with a superb 108 runs off 101 balls, including 13 fours and a six. His century, his fifth in ICC tournaments, formed the backbone of a 164-run stand with Kane Williamson, who also contributed a valuable 72 runs. While New Zealand lost early wickets – Will Young (21) and Tom Latham (4) falling cheaply – Ravindra and Williamson steadied the ship with a dominant display. Kagiso Rabada was the pick of the South African bowlers, claiming the wickets of Ravindra and Latham.
Despite losing early wickets, New Zealand reached 201/1 at the end of 32 overs, putting South Africa under immense pressure. The Proteas struggled to take wickets throughout the innings, with only one falling in the first eight overs.
South Africa made one change to their playing XI, bringing back Temba Bavuma to captaincy in place of Tristan Stubbs. New Zealand remained unchanged.
The match continues with South Africa needing a remarkable chase to secure their place in the final against India on March 9th. The winner of this semi-final will face India in the Champions Trophy final. The hot Lahore weather presented a significant challenge for the players. This is the third meeting between these two teams in the Champions Trophy, with each having won once previously.
First Piper 