Champions Trophy 2025: Who won yesterday's game between New Zealand vs South Africa?

New Zealand has booked their place in the final of the Champions Trophy after defeating South Africa by 50 runs in the semi-final in Lahore. Rachin Ravindra was named Player of the Match for his outstanding knock of 108 off 101 balls.

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After winning the toss, the Kiwis opted to bat first and got off to a solid start with an opening stand of 48 runs in 7.5 overs. Rachin and Kane Williamson then stitched together a mammoth 164-run partnership for the second wicket. Rachin scored his second century of the tournament before getting dismissed for 108 by Kagiso Rabada. 

Williamson also reached three figures, scoring 102 off 94 balls. Late contributions from Daryl Mitchell (49 off 37) and Glenn Phillips (49* off 27) propelled New Zealand to a commanding total of 362/6 in 50 overs. For South Africa, Lungi Ngidi picked up three wickets, while Rabada took two and Wiaan Mulder chipped in with one wicket.

Let’s take a look at South Africa’s chase

In response, South Africa lost opener Ryan Rickelton early for 17 off 12 balls. Temba Bavuma (56 off 71) and Rassie van der Dussen (69 off 66) added 105 runs for the second wicket, but their strike rates—especially Bavuma’s—raised questions given the steep chase of 363 runs. 

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The Proteas then lost Aiden Markram (31) and Heinrich Klaasen (3), leaving them in trouble. With 14 overs remaining, they needed 163 runs with just four wickets in hand. David Miller put up a lone fight, smashing an unbeaten 67-ball century, but he lacked support from the other end. 

Despite his heroics, South Africa managed only 312/9 in 50 overs, handing New Zealand a comfortable victory. With this win, the Kiwis will now face India in the final on 9 March in Dubai. New Zealand recently lost to India in the group stage at the same venue, but with that experience in mind, they will look to make amends when it matters the most. 

On the other hand, India remains unbeaten in the tournament and will aim to continue their dominant run to lift the trophy. The big question remains: Can New Zealand turn the tables, or will India clinch the title as an unbeaten side?          

Brief scores:

New Zealand won the toss and elected to bat first

New Zealand: 362/6 (50) 

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Rachin Ravindra 108 (101), Kane Williamson 102 (94), Lungi Ngidi 3/72, Kagiso Rabada 2/70

South Africa: 312/9 (50)

David Miller 100* (67), Rassie van der Dussen 69 (66), Mitchell Santner 3/43, Matt Henry 2/43

New Zealand won by 50 runs.

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