Match Details
- Fixture: New Zealand vs South Africa, Semi-final 2
- Tournament: ICC Champions Trophy 2025
- Date: Wednesday, March 05, 2025
- Time: 2:30 PM (IST) | 2:00 PM (Local Time)
- Venue: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
- Live Streaming & Broadcast: JioStar (Live Streaming on Jio Hotstar), Television coverage on Star and Network 18 channels
Teams Overview
New Zealand (NZ)
New Zealand had a solid campaign in the tournament, displaying their resilience and adaptability in crucial moments. Their batting and bowling units have been in decent form, but the recent defeat against India in the group stage has raised concerns over their ability to handle pressure in high-stakes games. The Kiwis will rely on their experienced middle order and a well-rounded bowling attack to counter South Africa’s challenge.
Recent Form in Tournament: WLW (Win, Loss, Win)
Strengths:
- A strong and balanced bowling attack led by Matt Henry and Mitchell Santner.
- Middle-order stability with Kane Williamson and Tom Latham.
- Glenn Phillips and Rachin Ravindra provide all-round flexibility.
Concerns:
- Over-reliance on key batters like Williamson and Latham.
- Struggles against quality spin attack.
South Africa (SA)
The Proteas have been one of the most dominant teams in the tournament, finishing their group stage campaign with two wins and one no-result. Their latest victory against England was a display of complete dominance, where they chased down a modest total of 180 in just 29.1 overs. South Africa will be aiming to break their long-standing ICC tournament knockout jinx and reach the final.
Recent Form in Tournament: WNRW (Win, No Result, Win)
Strengths:
- A dynamic top order featuring Temba Bavuma, Ryan Rickelton, and Rassie van der Dussen.
- A strong pace attack led by Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen.
- Match-winning all-rounders like Aiden Markram and Wiaan Mulder.
Concerns:
- Inconsistent middle order under pressure.
- Spin attack might struggle against NZ’s left-handed batters.
Key Players to Watch
New Zealand
- Kane Williamson – The experienced captain will be crucial in anchoring the innings.
- Matt Henry – The pacer’s early breakthroughs can turn the match in New Zealand’s favor.
- Glenn Phillips – A dangerous power-hitter who can shift momentum quickly.
South Africa
- Kagiso Rabada – The spearhead of the Proteas bowling attack, known for his lethal pace.
- Aiden Markram – A consistent performer in crucial matches.
- Heinrich Klaasen – A hard-hitting finisher who can accelerate the scoring rate in the death overs.
Head-to-Head Record (ODIs)
- Matches Played: 73
- New Zealand Wins: 26
- South Africa Wins: 42
- No Result: 5
- First Meeting: February 29, 1992
- Last Meeting: February 10, 2025
Probable Playing XIs
New Zealand:
- Will Young
- Rachin Ravindra
- Kane Williamson
- Tom Latham (wk)
- Daryl Mitchell
- Glenn Phillips
- Michael Bracewell
- Mitchell Santner (c)
- Matt Henry
- Kyle Jamieson
- William O’Rourke
South Africa:
- Temba Bavuma (c)
- Ryan Rickelton
- Aiden Markram
- Rassie van der Dussen
- Heinrich Klaasen (wk)
- David Miller
- Wiaan Mulder
- Marco Jansen
- Kagiso Rabada
- Keshav Maharaj
- Tabraiz Shamsi
Live Streaming
India:
- TV Channel: Sony Pictures Network (Specific channel to be announced)
- Live Streaming: SonyLIV app and website
Pakistan:
-
- TV Channel: Asports
- Live Streaming: Tamasha App, Tapmad
Pitch Report
The Gaddafi Stadium pitch is expected to offer a balanced contest between bat and ball. Fast bowlers will find some movement with the new ball, especially under lights, but spinners could play a crucial role in the middle overs. A score of around 280-300 will be considered competitive.
- Batting-Friendly: Yes, but with initial assistance for pacers.
- Pacers’ Advantage: In the first 10 overs.
- Spinners’ Role: Likely to dominate in the middle overs.
- Weather Forecast: Clear skies with no rain interruptions. Temperature around 20-28°C.
Probable Scenarios
- If South Africa bats first: They might aim for 280+, with their top order setting a strong foundation.
- If New Zealand bats first: They will look to post around 260-280, relying on partnerships and a late flourish from their middle order.
- Powerplay Overs: A crucial phase where both teams’ pacers will try to take early wickets.
- Death Overs: Expect a strong finish from big hitters like Klaasen and Phillips.
Match Prediction
South Africa enters the game as the favorites due to their dominant run in the group stage. However, New Zealand has a history of performing well in ICC knockout games.
Prediction: South Africa has a slight edge, but expect a close contest. The team winning the toss might prefer chasing, considering the dew factor in Lahore.
