David Miller’s Heroic Century in Vain as New Zealand Triumphs Over South Africa to Reach Final

 In a thrilling semi-final clash, David Miller delivered a performance for the ages, smashing a breathtaking century, but it wasn’t enough to steer South Africa to victory. The Proteas fell 50 runs short of New Zealand’s imposing target of 362, allowing the Kiwis to book their spot in the final against India in Dubai. Miller’s explosive knock of 100 runs off just 67 balls, including 10 fours and 4 sixes, was a masterclass in power-hitting, but the lack of support from the middle order proved costly.

South Africa’s Valiant Effort Falls Short
Captain Temba Bavuma (56) and Rassie van der Dussen (69) provided solid contributions, stitching together a crucial partnership to keep South Africa in the hunt. However, the failure of key players like Ryan Rickelton, Aiden Markram, and Heinrich Klaasen to fire at critical moments left the Proteas struggling to keep up with the required run rate. New Zealand’s bowlers, led by Mitchell Santner’s three-wicket haul, applied relentless pressure, exposing South Africa’s vulnerabilities in yet another ICC knockout match.

New Zealand’s Dominant Batting Display
Earlier in the match, New Zealand set the stage for their victory with a commanding batting performance. Kane Williamson and Rachin Ravindra both struck magnificent centuries, propelling the Kiwis to a formidable total of 362/6. Their partnership laid the foundation for a score that proved too steep for South Africa to chase down. New Zealand’s bowlers then stepped up, executing their plans to perfection and ensuring their team’s passage to the final.

Revenge on the Cards Against India
New Zealand will now face India in the final, a rematch of their earlier encounter in the tournament where Rohit Sharma’s men handed them their only defeat. The Kiwis will be eager to exact revenge and claim the ICC Champions Trophy title. With both teams in stellar form, the final promises to be a blockbuster showdown.

Match Summary

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  New Zealand: 362/6 (50 overs) – Kane Williamson 112, Rachin Ravindra 108

• South Africa: 312/9 (50 overs) – David Miller 100, Rassie van der Dussen 69, Temba Bavuma 56

• 
  Result: New Zealand won by 50 runs

Despite Miller’s heroics, South Africa’s dream of lifting the trophy came crashing down, while New Zealand marched one step closer to glory. Cricket fans worldwide are now eagerly awaiting the final, where two cricketing giants will battle it out for supremacy.

Catch the Highlights and Full Scorecard Here
For those who missed the action, relive the thrilling moments and check out the full scorecard of the SA vs NZ semi-final clash. The road to the final has been nothing short of spectacular, and the best is yet to come!