New Zealand Outclass South Africa to Enter Champions Trophy Final Despite David Miller’s Fighting Century

South Africa suffered yet another heartbreak in an ICC knockout match as New Zealand defeated them by 50 runs in the ICC Champions Trophy semi-final in Lahore. Despite a fighting century from David Miller and half-centuries from skipper Temba Bavuma and Rassie van der Dussen, the Proteas fell short in their chase of 363, adding another painful exit to their history of near-misses in global tournaments.

South Africa’s pursuit of the massive target started with Ryan Rickelton attacking Matt Henry and Kyle Jamieson. However, his aggressive intent backfired as he fell for 17 off 12 balls, caught at covers by Michael Bracewell off Henry’s bowling. At 20/1 in 4.5 overs, Bavuma and van der Dussen took charge, stabilizing the innings with a brisk 105-run stand. Bavuma reached his seventh ODI half-century in 64 balls, while van der Dussen notched up his 17th in the format, both playing crucial roles in keeping South Africa in the chase.

However, just as South Africa looked to gain momentum, New Zealand struck. In the 23rd over, Mitchell Santner removed Bavuma for 56 off 71 balls, caught by Kane Williamson at backward point. Van der Dussen continued the fight, but Santner struck again, dismissing him for 69 in 66 balls. Aiden Markram tried to keep the chase alive but fell to Rachin Ravindra for 31, while Heinrich Klaasen managed only three before being dismissed by Santner, who completed a game-changing spell of 3/43.

The collapse continued as Wiaan Mulder (8) was dismissed by Bracewell, and Glenn Phillips chipped in with key wickets, dismissing Marco Jansen (3) and Keshav Maharaj. At 218/8 in 39.3 overs, South Africa’s hopes were all but over. Kagiso Rabada and Miller attempted to fight back, but Henry, returning after an injury scare, cleaned up Rabada for 16.

Miller remained the lone warrior, smashing boundaries despite the mounting required run rate. He reached his century off the final ball of the innings, finishing unbeaten on 100 off 67 balls with 10 fours and four sixes. However, his heroics were not enough as South Africa was restricted to 312/9 in 50 overs, falling 50 runs short.

Earlier in the match, New Zealand, after opting to bat first, built a strong foundation. Will Young (21) provided a steady start before being dismissed, but a magnificent 164-run partnership between Rachin Ravindra and captain Kane Williamson changed the game. Williamson led from the front, scoring 102 off 94 balls, while Ravindra contributed crucial runs at the top.

New Zealand’s middle order capitalized on the solid foundation. Daryl Mitchell (49 off 37) and Glenn Phillips (49* off 27) played explosive knocks, pushing the total past 300. A quick 57-run partnership between them ensured New Zealand posted a formidable 362/6 in their 50 overs. Lungi Ngidi (3/72) and Kagiso Rabada (2/70) were the most successful bowlers for South Africa, but they struggled to contain the Kiwi batters.

Santner’s brilliant spell, supported by Henry, Phillips, Ravindra, and Bracewell, ensured South Africa never got close to the target. With this victory, New Zealand booked their place in the final, while South Africa was left to reflect on yet another missed opportunity in a major ICC event.