New Zealand to Face India in 2025 Champions Trophy Final After Beating South Africa:

Powered by stunning centuries from Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson, New Zealand cruised to a 50-run victory over South Africa, securing their place in the 2025 Champions Trophy final in Lahore on Wednesday.

A dominant all-round performance saw the Kiwis post a record-breaking total of 362, the highest-ever score in Champions Trophy history. Despite a valiant unbeaten century from David Miller, South Africa faltered in their chase, undone by Mitchell Santner’s brilliant 3/43 spell.

New Zealand will now face India in the final on March 9, setting up an exciting rematch of their group-stage encounter.

New Zealand’s Batting Blitz: Ravindra & Williamson Shine

Winning the toss, NZ opted to bat first, and from that moment, it was Kiwi dominance all day.

Though Will Young fell early, Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson took charge, unleashing a spectacular assault on the South African bowlers. The duo carved their way through the innings, punishing the Proteas' attack to bring up their majestic centuries.

Proteas Struggle in Middle Overs

The South African bowling lineup, usually formidable, looked clueless as the Kiwi batters piled on the runs. Kagiso Rabada, one of SA’s most reliable bowlers, provided a late breakthrough with two crucial wickets, but it barely slowed New Zealand’s charge.

With Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips hammering 49 runs each, New Zealand stormed to 362/6, setting a daunting target that would go down as the highest-ever in the Champions Trophy’s history.

South Africa’s Chase: A Strong Start, But A Sudden Collapse

In response, South Africa began well, with Temba Bavuma and Rassie van der Dussen stitching together a 105-run stand, both registering impressive fifties.

But just when the Proteas seemed to be settling into the chase, Mitchell Santner spun his magic, dismissing both Bavuma and van der Dussen, reducing SA to 161/3 and shifting momentum firmly in New Zealand’s favor.

David Miller’s Lone Fight Ends in Vain

After the twin blows, South Africa’s middle order crumbled, failing to establish any meaningful partnerships. Wickets tumbled regularly, as New Zealand’s bowlers kept applying pressure.

David Miller, however, refused to give up. The veteran left-hander played an explosive unbeaten knock of 100 off just 67 balls*, taking on the Kiwi bowlers single-handedly. But without support from the other end, his efforts weren’t enough, and South Africa fell short by 50 runs.

What’s Next? India vs. New Zealand in the Grand Finale

With this victory, New Zealand has booked a blockbuster final clash against India on March 9. This will be a highly anticipated rematch of their group-stage thriller, where both teams battled fiercely.

Can New Zealand lift the Champions Trophy, or will India halt their dream run? The cricketing world will be watching!