Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson scripted history with a 164-run partnership against South Africa in the second semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. This stand, which laid a strong foundation for New Zealand, is now the highest-ever partnership for New Zealand in Champions Trophy history, surpassing the 163-run stand between Nathan Astle and Scott Styris against the USA at The Oval in 2004.
It is also the highest partnership against South Africa in the history of the Champions Trophy, going past the 163-run stand between Paul Collingwood and Owais Shah at Centurion in 2009.
Rabada dismisses Ravindra after a brilliant century
Rachin Ravindra’s record-breaking knock of 108 (101) came to an end at 212/2 in 33.3 overs when Kagiso Rabada got the crucial breakthrough. Ravindra, attempting a drive off a wide off-cutter, edged the ball to Heinrich Klaasen at slip. Rabada, visibly pumped, celebrated the breakthrough.
Dismissal: Ravindra c Klaasen b Rabada 108(101) [4s-13 6s-1]
Fastest to five ODI centuries for New Zealand
Rachin Ravindra also became the second-fastest New Zealander to score five ODI centuries, reaching the mark in just 28 innings, only behind Devon Conway (22 innings).
Fewest innings to five ODI hundreds for New Zealand:
- 22 – Devon Conway
- 28 – Rachin Ravindra
- 30 – Daryl Mitchell
- 56 – Kane Williamson
- 64 – Nathan Astle
At 25 years and 107 days, Ravindra is also the second-youngest New Zealand batter to achieve five ODI centuries, following Kane Williamson (24 years, 165 days).
Match Situation
- New Zealand: 215/2 (34.3 overs)
- Kane Williamson: 81* (79)
- Daryl Mitchell: 2* (4)
- Bowling: Kagiso Rabada 1/38 (6), Keshav Maharaj 0/52 (7.3)
- Last Wicket: Rachin Ravindra c Klaasen b Rabada 108(101)
- Last 5 overs: 35 runs, 1 wicket
- Toss: New Zealand opted to bat
With New Zealand in a strong position, they will look to capitalize on the momentum and set a commanding total in this crucial semi-final.
