Rachin Ravindra showcased his batting prowess in the 2025 Champions Trophy semifinal between New Zealand and South Africa at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, on Wednesday, March 5. The left-hander registered his second century of the tournament, reaching the milestone in 93 balls with a six and 13 fours.
Earlier in the competition, Ravindra had scored his first ton against Bangladesh in the group stage. Notably, he also notched up three centuries for New Zealand in the 2023 ODI World Cup, playing a crucial role in their journey to the semifinals.
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Ravindra and Williamson lead New Zealand’s dominance in Champions Trophy semifinal
A commanding batting performance from Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson put New Zealand in control against South Africa in the second semifinal of the 2025 Champions Trophy. The pair built a 174-run stand for the second wicket before Ravindra fell for 108 off 101 balls, edging Kagiso Rabada to Heinrich Klaasen.
This was his second century in the ongoing tournament in Pakistan and Dubai. All five of his ODI centuries have come in ICC events, including three in the 2023 World Cup. Meanwhile, Williamson scored 102 off 94 balls, hitting 10 fours and two sixes. He now has 14 ODI centuries, with three consecutive against South Africa.
As of now, New Zealand are 212/2, with Williamson (80 off 77) at the crease alongside Daryl Mitchell. Earlier, Will Young was dismissed for 21 off 23, caught by Aiden Markram off Lungi Ngidi. The Kiwis recently defeated South Africa by six wickets in a tri-series featuring Pakistan at the same venue.
The winner of this match will face India in the final on Sunday, March 9, in Dubai. India secured their spot by defeating Australia by four wickets in the first semifinal.
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