A stellar all-round performance by New Zealand secured them a convincing victory over South Africa, booking their place in the ICC Champions Trophy final against India in Dubai on March 9.
Chasing a daunting 363-run target, South Africa fought hard but fell short at 312/9 despite a blistering century from David Miller.
The Proteas got off to a shaky start as opener Ryan Rickelton (17) was dismissed early by Matt Henry in the fifth over with just 20 runs on the board.
A crucial 105-run second-wicket partnership between Temba Bavuma (57 off 71) and Rassie van der Dussen (69 off 66) stabilized the innings, but their dismissals triggered a collapse.
New Zealand’s Mitchell Santner led the charge, removing Bavuma in the 23rd over and later dismissing van der Dussen, halting South Africa’s momentum.
Wickets continued to tumble, leaving South Africa struggling at 218/8, with only David Miller standing firm. The experienced batter launched a late counterattack, smashing an unbeaten 100 off 67 balls, including 10 fours and four sixes, but his heroics were not enough to take his side over the line.
New Zealand’s bowlers maintained pressure throughout, with Mitchell Santner shining as the pick of the bowlers, claiming 3/43 in 10 overs. Glenn Phillips and Matt Henry took two wickets each, while Michael Bracewell and Rachin Ravindra chipped in with one apiece.
Earlier, New Zealand’s top order laid the foundation for their commanding victory as Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson scored stunning centuries, guiding their team to a massive 362/6 in 50 overs.
Captain Mitchell Santner’s decision to bat first paid off handsomely, setting up a high-pressure chase that South Africa ultimately failed to overcome.
With this dominant win, New Zealand will now face India in the grand final, eyeing their first Champions Trophy title.
