Kiwis Set Mammoth Target – Can the Proteas Chase It Down or Will They Crumble?

New Zealand’s batsmen delivered a dominant performance in the second semi-final of the Champions Trophy, hammering South Africa’s bowling attack at Lahore Stadium. Young opener Rachin Ravindra (108) and former captain Kane Williamson (102) led the charge with scintillating centuries, while Glenn Phillips and Daryl Mitchell played explosive cameos to propel their team to a massive total.

Winning the toss and electing to bat, New Zealand posted a formidable 362 for 6 in their allotted 50 overs. Opener Will Young contributed 21 runs before being dismissed, setting the stage for a stunning partnership between Ravindra and Williamson. The duo put on a commanding 164-run stand for the second wicket, dismantling South Africa’s attack.

Ravindra scored 108 off 101 balls, striking 13 fours and a six, while Williamson’s 102 came off just 94 deliveries, featuring 10 boundaries and 2 sixes. Their masterclass set the platform for the middle order to capitalize.

Daryl Mitchell added a brisk 49 off 37 balls, including 4 fours and a six, while Glenn Phillips remained unbeaten with a fiery 49 off just 27 deliveries, smashing 6 fours and a six.

Among South African bowlers, Lungi Ngidi claimed 3 wickets, Kagiso Rabada took 2, and Wiaan Mulder managed 1. However, Marco Jansen, one of their key pacers, had a forgettable outing, conceding 79 runs in his 10 overs without taking a wicket. Even seasoned bowlers like Ngidi and Rabada struggled, conceding runs at an economy of 7 per over.

With an imposing target of 363, South Africa now faces a daunting chase. Will their batsmen rise to the occasion, or will New Zealand’s bowlers seal the deal?