The high-voltage semi-final between South Africa and New Zealand at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, has already produced plenty of fireworks. Chasing a massive target of 363, South Africa lost an early wicket but have since stabilized, with their skipper Temba Bavuma leading the charge. With the required run rate still within reach, the Proteas will need a strong partnership to stay in the hunt.

Earlier, Kane Williamson and Rachin Ravindra put on a batting masterclass, smashing centuries to power New Zealand to a formidable 362-run total. Daryl Mitchell’s quickfire 49 off 37 balls and Glenn Phillips’ unbeaten 49 off 27 balls added the finishing touches to a well-rounded team performance.

Match Overview

• Match: South Africa vs New Zealand, Semi-Final, Champions Trophy 2025
• Date: March 5, 2025
• Venue: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
• Toss: New Zealand opted to bat first
• Pitch Report: A batting-friendly pitch, with 300+ runs expected as a par score
• Head-to-Head: South Africa has won 42 of their 76 ODIs against New Zealand, while the Kiwis have emerged victorious 26 times.

First Innings Recap: New Zealand's Explosive Batting Display

New Zealand’s decision to bat first proved to be a masterstroke, as their batsmen put on a dominant performance.

Key Highlights of New Zealand's Innings:

Kane Williamson (100 off 91 balls): Anchored the innings with his typical elegance.
Rachin Ravindra (100 off 93 balls): Provided an attacking flair at the top, countering South Africa’s pace attack.
Daryl Mitchell (49 off 37 balls): Played a handy knock to keep the momentum going.
Glenn Phillips (49 off 27 balls):* Finished the innings in style with some powerful strokes.
Lungi Ngidi (3 wickets): Was the standout bowler for South Africa but lacked support from the other end.

Despite South Africa’s occasional breakthroughs, the Kiwis’ relentless attack saw them breach the 300-run mark comfortably, scoring 110 runs in the final 10 overs to set up a daunting total of 362/6.

South Africa’s Run Chase: Early Setbacks, But Bavuma Leads the Fight

Chasing 363, South Africa faced an early blow when Ryan Rickelton (17 off 12) was dismissed by Matt Henry. However, captain Temba Bavuma and Rassie van der Dussen have since steadied the innings.

Current Match Situation (Live Updates):

South Africa - 89/1 in 15.6 Overs
Temba Bavuma (Playing cautiously but looking to accelerate)
Rassie van der Dussen (Building a partnership, rotating strike well)
Ryan Rickelton (17 off 12, caught at short cover)

New Zealand’s bowlers have maintained tight lines, with Michael Bracewell and Will O’Rourke keeping the pressure on. However, with plenty of overs left and wickets in hand, the game is still wide open.

Can South Africa Pull Off a Historic Chase?

With a required rate that is still manageable, South Africa will need one or two big partnerships to challenge this massive target. The pitch has played well under lights, and Bavuma & van der Dussen's stand will be crucial in deciding their fate.

Key Factors for South Africa’s Success:

• Bavuma & van der Dussen must accelerate without losing wickets.
• The middle order, featuring Aiden Markram, David Miller, and Heinrich Klaasen, needs to step up.
• New Zealand will look for quick wickets to apply scoreboard pressure.

Will South Africa script a memorable chase, or will New Zealand’s bowlers finish the job? Stay tuned for more updates!