South Africa vs New Zealand: Champions Trophy 2025 Semi-Final Preview
The cricketing world is abuzz as South Africa and New Zealand gear up for a high-stakes semi-final clash in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Both teams have showcased exceptional skills throughout the tournament, setting the stage for a thrilling encounter at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
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Where to Watch South Africa vs New Zealand Semi-Final Live?
Cricket enthusiasts worldwide can catch the live action through various platforms:
- India: The match will be broadcast on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 2, and Sports18-1. Live streaming is available on the JioHotstar app and website.
- United States and Canada: Viewers can watch live on Willow Sports. Additionally, streaming is accessible via Fubo.
- Australia: The game will be televised on Star and Network 18 channels, with free live streams available on the JioStar app.
South Africa vs New Zealand Match Details
- Date: Wednesday, March 5, 2025
- Time: 2:30 PM IST (09:00 GMT)
- Venue: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, Pakistan
- Pitch and Weather: The Lahore pitch is known for favoring batsmen, promising a high-scoring game. Weather forecasts indicate hazy sunshine with temperatures around 26°C (80°F), ensuring ideal playing conditions.
South Africa vs New Zealand Head-to-Head Record
Historically, South Africa and New Zealand have been evenly matched, each boasting significant victories. In their recent encounter during a tri-series in Lahore last month, New Zealand emerged victorious by six wickets, giving them a psychological edge.
Predicted Playing XI & Key Players
Key Players to Watch
- South Africa: Kagiso Rabada’s fiery pace and Heinrich Klaasen’s consistent batting form are pivotal. The inclusion of left-arm spinner George Linde, covering for the injured Aiden Markram, adds depth to their bowling attack.
- New Zealand: Captain Kane Williamson’s leadership and Ross Taylor’s experience are invaluable. Their bowlers, especially Trent Boult, have been instrumental in restricting opponents.
Predicted Playing XI
South Africa:
- Quinton de Kock (wk)
- Reeza Hendricks
- Rassie van der Dussen
- Heinrich Klaasen
- David Miller
- George Linde
- Marco Jansen
- Kagiso Rabada
- Keshav Maharaj
- Lungi Ngidi
- Tabraiz Shamsi
New Zealand:
- Martin Guptill
- Devon Conway
- Kane Williamson (c)
- Ross Taylor
- Tom Latham (wk)
- James Neesham
- Mitchell Santner
- Kyle Jamieson
- Tim Southee
- Trent Boult
- Ish Sodhi
Standings in Champions Trophy
South Africa topped Group B, showcasing dominance with victories over Afghanistan and England, while their match against Australia was washed out. New Zealand, after impressive wins against Pakistan and Bangladesh, faced a setback against India but secured their semi-final spot.
South Africa vs New Zealand Dream11 Prediction & Fantasy Tips
For fantasy cricket enthusiasts, here’s a balanced Dream11 lineup:
- Captain: Kane Williamson
- Vice-Captain: Kagiso Rabada
- Batsmen: Kane Williamson, Ross Taylor, Heinrich Klaasen, Quinton de Kock
- All-rounders: James Neesham, Mitchell Santner
- Bowlers: Kagiso Rabada, Trent Boult, Keshav Maharaj, Kyle Jamieson
Match Prediction
Both teams have displayed exceptional prowess, making this a challenging prediction. However, South Africa’s consistent form and robust bowling attack might give them a slight advantage. Yet, New Zealand’s resilience and recent victory over South Africa cannot be overlooked, promising a nail-biting contest.
Conclusion
The South Africa vs. New Zealand semi-final is set to be a cricketing spectacle, with both teams eyeing a coveted spot in the Champions Trophy final against India. Fans worldwide eagerly await this showdown, anticipating a match filled with intensity, skill, and unforgettable moments.
*Note: For real-time updates and live scores, visit ESPNcricinfo and Cricbuzz.*