The 164-run partnership between Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson propelled New Zealand to a 50-run victory over South Africa in the second semi-final of the Champions Trophy. This crucial partnership laid a solid foundation for New Zealand's triumph.
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03-06, 2025Ravindra (108) and Williamson (102)'s second-wicket partnership helped the Black Caps post a tournament-record 6-362 in Lahore. Some late hitting from Daryl Mitchell (49) and Glenn Phillips (49 not out) saw the Black Caps advance to Sunday's final in Dubai against India.
India reached the tournament final after defeating Australia by four wickets in the first semi-final held in Dubai. New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner said, "The platform that Rachin and Kane were able to set was crucial, they played their roles." He added, "That set it up for that death phase where you can start [accelerating] earlier than you would if you start losing wickets. I thought that partnership was massive for us."
Santner, who helped restrict South Africa to 9-312 with figures of 3-43, also praised his team's attacking prowess. He stated, "For the bowlers, it's about constantly chipping away with wickets." He further added, "Personally, it was nice. What we talked about as a group was applying pressure but still taking wickets. It was nice to get three very good scalps personally. Having four all-round spinners adds to the depth."
South Africa captain Temba Bavuma expressed that his team's top order let them down. Bavuma, who scored 56, said, "From a batting point of view, we didn't get that partnership going." He added, "There were one or two there, but we needed myself or Rassie van der Dussen to emulate what their top four did." David Miller was South Africa's top scorer with an unbeaten 100.
