Champions Trophy 2025: New Zealand’s road to the finals
New Zealand’s journey to the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy final has been marked by resilience and strategic brilliance. Their campaign commenced on February 19 against co-hosts and defending champions Pakistan at the National Stadium in Karachi. Batting first, New Zealand posted an imposing total of 320/5, propelled by centuries from Will Young and Tom Latham. The duo’s partnership laid a solid foundation, with 113 runs coming off the last ten overs. In response, the Black Caps’ bowlers, notably Mitchell Santner and Will O’Rourke, each claimed three wickets, restricting Pakistan to 260 and securing a 60-run victory.
Continuing their momentum, New Zealand faced Bangladesh on February 24. Opting to bowl first, the Kiwis efficiently restricted Bangladesh to 237 runs. Rachin Ravindra’s composed century anchored the chase, leading New Zealand to a five-wicket win in 46.1 overs. This victory not only underscored their batting depth but also cemented their spot in the semi-finals alongside India from Group A.
In their final group stage match on March 2, New Zealand encountered a formidable Indian side. Despite Matt Henry’s exceptional bowling figures of 5/42, India managed to post 249/9. During the chase, Kane Williamson’s resilient 81 runs provided stability; however, the team struggled against Varun Chakravarthy’s spin mastery, who claimed five wickets for 42 runs. Consequently, New Zealand was bowled out for 204, resulting in a 44-run defeat.
The semi-final on March 5 pitted New Zealand against South Africa at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Batting first, the Black Caps amassed a formidable 361/6, highlighted by centuries from Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson. Their partnership set a challenging target, and despite a valiant century from South Africa’s David Miller, New Zealand’s bowlers maintained control, limiting the Proteas to 312/9 and securing a 50-run victory.
Throughout the tournament, New Zealand’s consistent performances have been bolstered by key players. Kane Williamson’s batting brilliance has been complemented by the effective bowling of Matt Henry and Mitchell Santner, who have played pivotal roles in stifling opposition batting line-ups. This balanced approach has been instrumental in their progression to the final.
New Zealand will aim to clinch their second Champions Trophy title when they face India in the finale on March 9. Previously, they had last won the prestigious tournament in 2000. Their journey to the final has showcased a blend of experienced leadership, strategic acumen, and individual brilliance, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the tournament.
