Rachin Ravindra’s Century Propels New Zealand to ICC Champions Trophy Final

Black Caps Star Reflects on Crucial Knock Against South Africa Ahead of India Showdown

New Zealand’s rising star Rachin Ravindra delivered when it mattered most, scoring a magnificent 108 to help his team secure a 50-run victory over South Africa in the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final. The Black Caps, propelled by Ravindra and skipper Kane Williamson’s (102) centuries, posted a daunting total of 362/6, which proved too much for South Africa, who fell short at 312/9.

With this win, New Zealand have set up a thrilling final clash against India in Dubai, mirroring the 2000 Champions Trophy final. As the Kiwis gear up for their title shot, Ravindra reflected on his innings, the challenges he faced, and the invaluable support of his teammates in navigating the high-pressure encounter.

A Measured Start Turns Into a Dominant Knock

Facing South Africa’s lethal new-ball attack, Ravindra found himself in a challenging position early on, as Marco Jansen and Lungi Ngidi bowled with discipline, restricting his scoring options. However, the young opener stayed composed, relying on his technique and the guidance of his teammates to settle in.

“It is always a great feeling to contribute to the team,” said Ravindra after the match. “Winning a semi-final in such a convincing manner is extremely pleasing. I didn’t start as well as I would have wanted, but South Africa bowled really well upfront, which limited me a bit. The key was building partnerships, first with Will Young and then with Kane Williamson, which really helped me find my rhythm.”

Despite the slow start, Ravindra gradually found his touch, bringing up his fifty in 47 balls before shifting gears. His innings of 108 off 101 balls included 13 fours and one six, perfectly balancing caution with aggression.

Williamson’s Acceleration Shifts the Momentum

New Zealand’s initial strategy was to target a score around 300, considering the slow nature of the pitch. However, as Williamson began to up the ante with a display of calculated aggression, the team’s ambitions soared beyond their original expectations.

“We were thinking around 300,” Ravindra explained. “The pitch was a little slow, and the cutters were gripping, which made it tricky. But once Kane started accelerating, we realized there was more on offer. His ability to find boundaries so effortlessly lifted our tempo.”

Williamson’s brilliant innings saw him reach his 15th ODI century in just 91 balls. The partnership between Ravindra and Williamson proved to be the backbone of New Zealand’s innings, frustrating South Africa’s bowlers and setting up the platform for an explosive finish.

Late Surge from Phillips and Mitchell Seals the Deal

While Ravindra and Williamson’s centuries laid the foundation, it was Glenn Phillips and Daryl Mitchell who provided the finishing fireworks. With New Zealand sitting in a strong position after the top-order efforts, Phillips (49 off 27 balls) and Mitchell (49 off 33 balls) launched an all-out assault in the death overs, propelling the total to an imposing 362/6.

“The way GP [Glenn Phillips] and Daz [Daryl Mitchell] finished things off was incredible,” Ravindra acknowledged. “It’s exactly what we needed. Their power-hitting at the back end ensured we maximized the platform Kane and I had set.”

South Africa’s Response Falls Short Despite Miller’s Heroics

Chasing 363, South Africa made a promising start with Rassie van der Dussen (69) and Temba Bavuma (56) anchoring the innings. However, Mitchell Santner’s game-changing spell dismantled their middle order, and despite David Miller’s spectacular unbeaten century (100* off 67 balls), the Proteas fell 50 runs short.

New Zealand’s bowling unit once again proved their mettle, with Santner (3/43) and Phillips (2/36) playing crucial roles in defending the total. Matt Henry, now the tournament’s leading wicket-taker, also chipped in with key breakthroughs.

Looking Ahead to the Final Against India

With their semi-final triumph in the books, New Zealand now turn their focus to India, a team they faced in the group stage and fell short against. However, Ravindra emphasized the importance of celebrating their semi-final win before shifting attention to the final showdown.

“That’s the thing about tournament cricket it’s always about what’s next,” Ravindra said. “For us, it’s important to soak in the moment today and celebrate as a team. There were some beautiful performances today, and we should acknowledge that before we reset and prepare for India.”

New Zealand will head to Dubai for the final, where they will be looking to avenge their earlier defeat to India and claim their second ICC Champions Trophy title. With players like Ravindra, Williamson, and Phillips in red-hot form, the Black Caps will be confident in their chances of lifting the trophy.