Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson both scored centuries to lead New Zealand to a 50-run victory over South Africa in the semifinal, securing their place in the final. Ravindra, who has a remarkable connection with ICC tournaments, continued his impressive form with his fifth ODI century, all achieved in ICC events—a record for a New Zealand player. His partnership with Williamson was pivotal in setting a new record for the highest total in Champions Trophy history.
Reflecting on his performance, Ravindra expressed his joy at contributing to the team’s success, especially in such a significant match. He acknowledged the challenging start against South Africa’s disciplined bowling but highlighted the importance of building partnerships with Will Young and Williamson. Ravindra emphasized the need to navigate the ups and downs of ODI cricket, appreciating the support from his teammates during his innings.
Initially, New Zealand aimed for a total around 300, considering the slow pitch and South Africa’s effective use of cutters. However, Williamson’s acceleration and a strong finish by Glenn Phillips and Daryl Mitchell propelled the team to a formidable 360 runs. This total proved to be above-par, even on a batting-friendly surface.
New Zealand’s captain, Mitchell Santner, praised the Ravindra-Williamson partnership for setting the foundation and the lower-order batsmen for finishing strongly. He noted that the pitch was somewhat tricky initially but became easier to bat on as the innings progressed. Santner also commended the team’s bowlers for their disciplined performance, particularly in the middle overs, where they took crucial wickets to stifle South Africa’s chase. Santner himself delivered an outstanding spell, taking three key wickets, including those of Temba Bavuma, Rassie van der Dussen, and Heinrich Klaasen.
South Africa’s captain, Bavuma, admitted that chasing 362 was a daunting task. Despite a solid start with a 105-run partnership between Bavuma and van der Dussen, the team lost momentum in the middle overs. Bavuma acknowledged that his dismissal and van der Dussen’s departure were turning points, leaving too much for the lower order to do. He credited New Zealand’s batters for their aggressive and calculated approach, which kept the pressure on South Africa throughout the innings.
Bavuma also pointed out the struggles of South Africa’s bowlers, who failed to contain New Zealand’s batsmen or break crucial partnerships. He emphasized the need for his team to be more decisive and ruthless in key moments, which could have changed the outcome of the match. Despite the disappointment, Bavuma praised New Zealand’s performance, particularly the contributions of Ravindra, Williamson, Mitchell, and Phillips, who collectively ensured a dominant total and a comprehensive victory.
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