New Zealand wins another ICC knockout match over South Africa, will face India on 9 March
New Zealand defeated South Africa in another knockout match, in which Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson’s wonderful centuries played a big role. South Africa once again could not cross the hurdle of the semi-finals of the ICC tournament. On the batting-friendly pitch of Lahore, New Zealand won the toss and decided the bowling first and took full advantage of it.
Strong start for New Zealand
New Zealand’s bowlers showed aggressive intent right from the beginning. Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson together attacked the South African bowlers. Rachin Ravindra continued his old form and scored another wonderful century. Along with him, Kane Williamson also played the captain’s innings and completed his century. A great partnership was formed between these two, in which South African bowlers were seen struggling a lot.
At the end of the innings, Glen Phillips made a quick 50 in just 28 balls and took New Zealand’s score to 362. This score became difficult for South Africa considering the pressure of a big match.
South Africa’s pressure chase and Miller’s record breaking performance
South Africa’s batting also did not start well. Captain Temba Bavuma and Rickelton started the innings, but soon Rickelton got out on a total score of just 20. After this, Van der Dussen and Bavuma together made a 102-run partnership, which seemed like a strong platform for South Africa.
But New Zealand captain Santner changed the momentum of the match. Due to his tight bowling, no major partnership was formed in the middle-order. Key batsmen like Heinrich Klaasen and Aiden Markram also got out early, due to which South Africa went away from the match.
In the end, David Miller gave a tremendous performance and broke the record of the fastest century of Champions Trophy by scoring a century in just 67 balls. This innings was a treat for the fans, but by then New Zealand had won the match.
Now New Zealand faces India – a blockbuster FINAL
New Zealand will now take on India on 9 March, which is going to be a high-voltage match. India will take full advantage of its home conditions and their recent form is also amazing. They have match-winners like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah in their team.
But New Zealand also always performs strongly in ICC knockouts. Their balanced squad and Kane Williamson’s tactical captaincy can go in their favor. This match can be a thrilling clash, in which both teams are going to give tough competition to each other.
Will New Zealand pull off another upset, or will India take another step towards winning the trophy at DUBAI..! It will be interesting to watch!
