The stage is set for an electrifying ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final between New Zealand and South Africa at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Both teams, aiming to end their ICC limited-overs title drought since the late 1990s, will battle for a spot in the final on March 5, 2025.
Historical Rivalry & Head-to-Head Stats
South Africa has historically dominated New Zealand in ODI cricket, winning 42 out of 73 matches, while the Kiwis have secured 26 victories. However, in Champions Trophy history, their head-to-head stands at 1-1, adding extra intrigue to this high-stakes encounter.
Match Details
- Fixture: New Zealand vs South Africa, ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Semi-Final
- Venue: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
- Date: Wednesday, March 5, 2025
- Toss Time: 2:00 PM IST
- Match Start Time: 2:30 PM IST
Recent Performance & Road to the Semi-Final
- New Zealand finished second in Group A behind India, winning two matches but losing their last group game to India by 44 runs.
- South Africa topped Group B, registering two wins in three games, including a crucial victory over England.
In their most recent ODI clash on February 10, 2025, New Zealand successfully chased down South Africa’s 304/6 to secure a six-wicket victory in Lahore, which gives them a psychological edge heading into the semi-final.
Key Factors for the Semi-Final
- Bowling Depth: South Africa boasts a more varied bowling attack, which could prove decisive.
- Spin Challenge: The Lahore pitch is slower, offering limited turn, making spinners’ role crucial.
- Recent Form: New Zealand’s win in the last encounter at Lahore could boost their confidence.
Squads for the Semi-Final
South Africa Squad
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.
New Zealand Squad
Mitchell Santner (c), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Nathan Smith, Kane Williamson, Will Young, Jacob Duffy (replacement for Ben Sears).
Live Streaming & Broadcast Details
- TV Broadcast: Star Sports 2 HD/SD (English), Sports 18 1 HD/SD (Hindi)
- Live Streaming: JioHotstar
NZ vs SA: Champions Trophy ODI Head-to-Head Stats
| Team | Matches | Won | Lost | No Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Zealand | 73 | 26 | 42 | 5 |
| South Africa | 73 | 42 | 26 | 5 |
Champions Trophy Head-to-Head (Previous Meetings)
| Team | Matches | Won | Lost | No Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Zealand | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| South Africa | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
In 2006, New Zealand secured a 87-run victory over South Africa, while in 2009, South Africa won by five wickets.
With both teams looking to add another ICC title to their name, this semi-final promises to be a thrilling encounter for cricket fans worldwide.
