Champions Trophy: Coach Walter Emphasizes South Africa's Ongoing Evolution
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Synopsis
South African coach Rob Walter emphasized that his team is still evolving following their 50-run loss to New Zealand in the 2025 Champions Trophy semi-final at Gaddafi Stadium. He highlighted the importance of learning from each match as they prepare for the upcoming World Cup.
Key Takeaways
- Rob Walter insists the team is evolving.
- South Africa lost to New Zealand by 50 runs.
- New Zealand set a record with 362 runs.
- Davi Miller scored a remarkable unbeaten century.
- Middle overs crucial for match outcome.
Lahore, March 6 (NationPress) The head coach of South Africa, Rob Walter, has asserted that his team is still in the process of evolving, even after facing a 50-run defeat against New Zealand in the 2025 Champions Trophy semi-final held at the Gaddafi Stadium.
New Zealand managed to score 362/6, marking the highest total in the tournament's history. In response, the Proteas achieved 312/9 in their allotted 50 overs, with Davi Miller scoring a remarkable unbeaten century off 67 balls.
“We had players making significant contributions with the bat. In terms of bowling, our most notable advancement was our accuracy, something we've been diligently focusing on. Each match serves as a learning experience, and we strive to absorb the smaller lessons,” he stated.
“This was a tough lesson to learn, especially since it's the conclusion of our campaign, but we are continuously learning. There is no doubt that we are progressing as a team. With two and a half years leading up to the 2027 World Cup, we have our eyes set on the prize,” Walter remarked after the match.
He also noted that the middle overs during both innings were crucial, allowing New Zealand to build a substantial 164-run partnership between centurions Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson.
“We lost some critical wickets in the middle overs. Had we maintained a solid partnership, I believe the conclusion would have been much closer. While we could reflect on our execution, the commitment from the players was unquestionable. We gave it our all, but we couldn't break that partnership, which was instrumental in their late push. We attempted various strategies, but the ball wasn't gripping well early on, causing it to slide,” he explained.
“It was indeed a good batting pitch; you can't score 360 unless the wicket is favorable. So, I don't think it was due to a lack of effort on our part. The Blackcaps spinners have performed well throughout the competition. Santner is an exceptional bowler, and the ball certainly spun more during the second innings,” he concluded.
