New Zealand will face South Africa in the second semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025
05 March, 2025
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PHOTO: AFP
New Zealand will face South Africa in the second semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, with both teams aiming for a spot in the final. The match, set to take place at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, promises to be an exciting contest, as both sides have been in strong form throughout the tournament.
Match Details:
Team Previews:
New Zealand:
New Zealand enters this semi-final with confidence after a strong showing in the group stages. Led by Mitchell Santner, the team has been impressive both with the bat and the ball. Key players such as Devon Conway, Tom Latham, and Will Young have been in good form, contributing significantly to the team's success. Their bowling attack, which includes Matt Henry and skipper Mitchell Santner, has been one of the most consistent in the tournament. New Zealand's depth in both batting and bowling makes them a tough opponent, and they will be looking to carry their momentum into this high-stakes semi-final.
South Africa:
South Africa, led by Temba Bavuma, has also shown great resilience throughout the tournament. The team got commanding wins over Afghanistan and England, with key players like Rassie van der Dussen and Aiden Markram playing pivotal roles. South Africa's bowling attack, led by Kagiso Rabada and Keshav Maharaj, has been formidable, although the absence of fast bowlers like Anrich Nortje has posed a challenge. However, their all-round performance and ability to adapt to different conditions will be key as they look to knock out New Zealand and reach the final.
Squads:
New Zealand:
Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (wk), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, William O'Rourke, Jacob Duffy, Devon Conway, Mark Chapman, Nathan Smith
South Africa:
Ryan Rickelton, Temba Bavuma (c), Rassie van der Dussen, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), David Miller, Marco Jansen, George Linde, Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Aiden Markram, Tristan Stubbs, Corbin Bosch, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tony de Zorzi
Pitch Report:
The pitch at Gaddafi Stadium is expected to favor the batsmen, with flat conditions providing ample opportunity for big scores. However, spinners will also get some assistance as the match progresses, particularly in the middle overs. Teams batting first will aim to set a challenging target, but chasing will be a viable option as the pitch tends to ease out in the second innings. Expect a high-scoring contest with both teams likely to aim for big totals.
Weather Report:
The weather in Lahore is expected to be pleasant with abundant sunshine throughout the day. The temperature will reach a high of 27°C, making it a comfortable day for cricket. The breeze will be light, coming from the northwest at 15 km/h, with gusts reaching up to 39 km/h. There is no chance of precipitation, and the probability of thunderstorms is 0%, ensuring perfect conditions for the match.
Match Prediction:
South Africa enters this semi-final undefeated, making them slight favorites. However, New Zealand's fighting spirit, combined with their experienced players and strong bowling attack, makes them a dangerous side. Both teams are evenly matched, and the match is expected to be a closely contested affair. It promises to be an exciting semi-final as both teams battle for a place in the final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, where they will face India.
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