ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Semi-final Preview: South Africa vs New Zealand
South Africa and New Zealand will compete in the semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on March 5. South Africa aims for its second title, while New Zealand seeks redemption after a recent loss to India. Both teams are expected to field their strongest lineups with a place in the finals at stake, setting the stage for an exciting match in Lahore.
South Africa is set to face New Zealand in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final on Wednesday, March 5, at Gaddafi Stadium. The Proteas aim to secure their second Champions Trophy after first winning it in 1998, while the Kiwis, having previously won in 2000, look to rebound from a recent defeat against India. Both teams will field their strongest lineups, seeking a spot in the finals against either India or Australia.
Expected lineups are as follows: South Africa will likely feature Temba Bavuma (C), Ryan Rickelton, Aiden Markram, Rassie van der Dussen, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), David Miller, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Wiaan Mulder, Kagiso Rabada, and Lungi Ngidi. Conversely, New Zealand is expected to deploy Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Tom Latham (wk), Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner (C), Michael Bracewell, Matt Henry, William O’Rourke, and Kyle Jamieson.
Historically, the two teams have faced each other 73 times in ODIs, with South Africa winning 42 matches compared to New Zealand’s 26 victories, accompanied by 5 no results. This semi-final brings to mind the dramatic 2015 ODI World Cup semi-final where South Africa faced disappointment against New Zealand. Presently, the odds indicate South Africa is favored to win, demonstrating their current form and depth in batting.
New Zealand enters the match with diminished morale following their loss to India, where they faltered by adopting a defensive approach during their chase. In contrast, South Africa has displayed consistent success throughout the tournament, having emerged victorious in every group stage match. The Proteas are well-positioned to advance to the finals based on their recent performance and batting strength.
According to Dafabet, the betting odds suggest South Africa ranks as the favorite with odds of 1.82, while New Zealand follows at 2.11. The outcome of this highly anticipated match is keenly awaited as both teams strive for a place in the championship final.
In conclusion, the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final between South Africa and New Zealand promises to deliver high-stakes cricket, with South Africa entering as favorites after a strong tournament display. In contrast, New Zealand seeks to regain confidence following a disappointing loss to India. The historical head-to-head record favors South Africa, but the unpredictability of cricket leaves room for any team to emerge victorious, making this match an exciting fixture for fans and bettors alike.
Original Source: www.sportingnews.com
