New Zealand has qualified for the final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 after winning the second semi-final against South Africa. The Kiwis are now preparing for the final showdown against Team India (IND vs NZ).
During the group stage, India emerged victorious against New Zealand. However, despite the loss, Kiwi captain Mitchell Santner revealed that the intense contest against India helped boost their confidence. He shared his thoughts after the semi-final win over South Africa.
Group Stage Match Against India Boosted Confidence: Santner
Santner expressed satisfaction with the semi-final victory, emphasizing the challenge posed by South Africa.
"It feels great to win this match. We faced a tough opponent, and now we are set to return to Dubai for the final. We already played against India there and lost, but we left for Lahore with the belief that we had put them under pressure. That confidence helped us win today," said Santner.
He credited Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson for setting up a strong total with their centuries and highlighted the importance of picking up wickets in the middle overs.
"We took crucial wickets in the middle overs, which made things difficult for South Africa. Having four spin all-rounders in our squad made my job easier. Our pacer Matt Henry is struggling with a shoulder injury, but there is still time before the final, and we hope he recovers in time. We are excited to face India in the final. Also, sometimes losing the toss works in your favor," Santner added.
Temba Bavuma Reflects on South Africa’s Performance
South Africa’s captain, Temba Bavuma, admitted that New Zealand set a challenging target. He believed that a score below 350 runs would have given them a better chance at a successful chase.
"The target set by New Zealand was too high. If it had been under 350 runs, we would have had a better chance. We built some good partnerships, but they weren’t enough," Bavuma said.
He pointed out that a more aggressive approach from him and Vander Dussen could have made a difference.
"When we were at 125/1, it would have been better if Vander Dussen and I had accelerated. However, we played cautiously to avoid losing wickets, which didn't work in our favor," Bavuma concluded.
With the final showdown between India and New Zealand set to take place in Dubai, fans eagerly await an exciting battle for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 title.
