Cricketing giants South Africa and New Zealand will clash in the second semi-final of the ongoing Champions Trophy on Wednesday at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Both teams have shown outstanding form so far in the tournament, and now, only one will have the privilege of advancing to the final, where the ultimate glory awaits. Both teams have won this tournament once before but that time it was called the ICC Knockout Trophy.

New Zealand have proven their mettle in the tournament so far, however, their winning streak took a pause in their last match against India, where they suffered a 44-run win. Nonetheless, they have demonstrated unwavering consistency and depth in both batting and bowling. Kiwis are also high on confidence, having navigated their way through the group stages with utmost brilliance. Key players like Will Young, Kane Williamson, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips and Mitchell Santner have been pivotal in getting New Zealand this far. 

South Africa, on the other hand, enter this semi-final as one of the tournament’s strongest contenders. They have been exceptional across all departments with dominant performances from their key players. Sitting on top of Group B’s points table with two victories, while their one match didn’t produce any result, South Africa will look to win the battle and qualify for final. Even, their batting lineup has been incredibly amazing with Heinrich Klaasen and Rassie van der Dussen firing on all cylinders. 

The team also has the presence of reliable performers such as David Miller, Tristan Stubbs and Ryan Rickelton. South Africa’s bowling has also been equally impressive, with Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Marco Jansen and Keshav Maharaj spearheading the attack. Rabada’s death bowling skills have been particularly crucial, while the spin attack has added another layer of danger for opponents. On paper, both teams have their distinct advantages, making the contest even more competitive.

Despite having been successful during the group stages, the pressure is still on for both teams to deliver when it matters the most. The winner of this semi-final will earn a place in the final, where they will have the chance to lift the title.

Head to head

Matches: 73

No result: 5

SA won: 43

NZ won: 26

SA probable XI: Temba Bavuma (c), Ryan Rickelton, Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram/Tristan Stubbs, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi.

NZ probable XI: Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (wk), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, William ORourke