Champions Trophy: New Zealand and South Africa Clash to Overcome Past Disappointments
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Synopsis
Lahore hosts a thrilling ICC Champions Trophy semi-final between South Africa and New Zealand, two teams with a history of near misses in major tournaments. As they vie for a place in the finals, both sides aim to overcome past disappointments and claim glory. The match promises to be an exhilarating contest filled with high stakes.
Key Takeaways
- Both teams have a history of heartbreak in ICC tournaments.
- High-scoring conditions are expected at Gaddafi Stadium.
- Key players include Williamson for New Zealand and Bavuma for South Africa.
- The fast bowlers' duel could determine the match outcome.
- Clear weather forecast promises an uninterrupted match.
Lahore, March 4 (NationPress) Two of the most consistent yet unfortunate teams in world cricket, South Africa and New Zealand, are poised to compete in the second semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy at the Gaddafi Stadium. Both teams, recognized for their heartbreaking exits in significant tournaments, are now on the verge of grasping another opportunity for success.
New Zealand has frequently triumphed in ICC knockout matches, most notably eliminating South Africa in the 2011 and 2015 World Cups. While those memories may have dulled, the Proteas still bear the burden of an elusive global championship. Conversely, New Zealand has come agonizingly close to victory in recent years, including the controversial 2019 World Cup final. With both teams evenly matched, this match is sure to add another thrilling chapter to their enduring rivalry.
Competing in Lahore seems to favor both teams, given the high-scoring conditions. South Africa's top order, spearheaded by Temba Bavuma, will aim to set a daunting total with talents like Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller. For New Zealand, the consistently reliable Kane Williamson is crucial, having scored a century against South Africa in the lead-up to the tournament. Supported by Devon Conway, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham, and Glenn Phillips, the Kiwis boast a well-rounded batting lineup capable of challenging the Proteas' formidable attack.
The showdown among the fast bowlers could prove pivotal, as South Africa's Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen face off against New Zealand's Matt Henry and Kyle Jamieson. Both teams have experienced injury challenges within their pace bowling ranks but are still equipped with high-quality seamers. The spin departments are equally balanced, with New Zealand's Mitchell Santner and Michael Bracewell set to challenge South Africa's Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi.
With seasoned players like Williamson (34) and Miller (35), this could represent one of their final chances to secure an ICC ODI title. Miller, renowned for his clutch performances, will seek to make a significant impact, as he has in South Africa's previous knockout matches. Simultaneously, Williamson's ability to stabilize and accelerate in high-pressure scenarios remains critical for the Black Caps.
Given an average first-innings score of 316.5 at this venue in recent ODIs, anticipate another scoring frenzy. The weather forecast is clear, ensuring an uninterrupted spectacle. With the firepower on both sides, this match could be thrilling to the end, with the team that manages pressure best likely to claim victory.
When: Wednesday, March 5
Where: Gaddafi Stadium
Time: The match is scheduled to commence at 2:30 pm IST, with the toss at 2 pm.
Broadcast details: The match will be aired on Star Sports Network.
Live Streaming: The match will be available on JioHotstar.
Squads:
New Zealand: Mitchell Santner (c), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Nathan Smith, Kane Williamson, Will Young, Jacob Duffy.
South Africa: Temba Bavuma (c), Tony de Zorzi, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs, Rassie van der Dussen, Corbin Bosch.
Travelling reserve: Kwena Maphaka
