The Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore is electric with tension and excitement as South Africa and New Zealand clash in the second semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner won the toss and opted to bat first, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown. With the scoreboard ticking and early breakthroughs already in play—Lungi Ngidi dismissing Will Young to disrupt a solid opening stand—the match is shaping up as a fierce contest. The winner will earn the right to face India, who secured their finals spot with a gripping four-wicket win over Australia in Dubai on March 4, in the title clash on March 9.

South Africa, unbeaten in the tournament under Temba Bavuma’s leadership, have been a force to reckon with. Their pace attack, led by Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen, has been devastating, while Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller have anchored the batting. Today, Ngidi’s early strike signals their intent to dominate. Yet, the Proteas carry the weight of history, with a reputation for faltering in knockout stages—a narrative they’re desperate to rewrite.

New Zealand, despite a 44-run loss to India in the group stage, have shown grit and flair. Kane Williamson’s 81 in that defeat highlighted his class, and the Black Caps have thrived in Lahore, posting big totals in prior games. With Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, and Santner’s spin in their arsenal, they hold a 7-4 edge over South Africa in ICC tournament clashes, adding a psychological boost.

The Gaddafi pitch promises runs, but spin could turn the tide later. For both teams, this is more than a semi-final—it’s a chance to end decades-long ICC title droughts and meet India in Dubai. As the battle intensifies, the cricketing world watches to see who will rise.