Jobaaj Stories
NZ vs SA: Champions Trophy 2025 Semifinal Showdown
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semifinals pit two cricketing giants against each other: New Zealand and South Africa. This high-stakes clash, held on March 5th at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium, will determine which team advances to the final against India. The match promises a thrilling encounter, with both teams boasting strong batting and bowling lineups. Who will emerge victorious?
A Look at the Contenders
South Africa, topping Group B, enters the semi-final undefeated (with one washout). Their consistent performance throughout the group stages highlights their strength and determination. New Zealand, Group A's runner-up, arrives after a narrow loss to India. Despite this setback, their earlier victories showcase their potential to turn the tide.
The Match: A Live Report
New Zealand, winning the toss, opted to bat first on a flat, run-friendly Lahore pitch. Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson anchored the innings with a stunning 164-run partnership. Ravindra smashed a century (108), his fifth ODI hundred, all in ICC tournaments. Williamson also reached a century (102) before both were dismissed. New Zealand posted a formidable total, well over 250 runs.
Live Win Probability & Odds
Early predictions favored South Africa (52%), but as the match unfolded, live win probabilities shifted dramatically, with New Zealand taking a commanding lead (65%). Dafabet odds reflected this, placing New Zealand as the favorites (1.28) against South Africa (3.70).
Key Moments & Analysis
Several key moments shaped the match. Heinrich Klaasen's dropped catch of Williamson on 56 proved costly for South Africa. Kagiso Rabada's breakthrough, dismissing Ravindra, offered a brief respite for the Proteas, but it was too late to stop the Kiwi onslaught. The high-scoring nature of the match underscored the flat pitch conditions.
Post-Match Summary
Ultimately, New Zealand's impressive batting display, led by exceptional centuries from Ravindra and Williamson, overpowered South Africa. The final score remains to be seen, but New Zealand secured a comfortable victory and secured their place in the Champions Trophy final against India in Dubai on March 9th. This result showcases New Zealand's strength in knockout matches, having defeated South Africa twice previously in ICC tournament knockouts.
Click, Sign Up & Win!
Don't miss out on the excitement! Sign up now for a chance to win a welcome bonus of up to INR 20,000 and other exciting cash prizes.
