Santner Praises Ravindra-Williamson Partnership as New Zealand Reaches Champions Trophy Final
New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner hailed the crucial 164-run partnership between Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson, crediting their stand as the foundation for New Zealand’s high-scoring semi-final victory over South Africa in the Champions Trophy on Wednesday.
The second-wicket stand between Ravindra (108) and Williamson (102) propelled New Zealand to a tournament-record total of 362-6, setting a daunting target for the Proteas. Daryl Mitchell (49) and Glenn Phillips (49 not out) provided the late acceleration, helping the Kiwis post a massive total.
“The platform that we were able to set was vital, with Rachin and Kane doing their things,” Santner said after the match. “That partnership was massive for us and allowed us to start accelerating earlier than usual.”
Clinical Bowling Restricts South Africa
Despite a blistering century from David Miller (106 not out), South Africa fell 50 runs short, managing 312-9 as New Zealand’s bowlers chipped away at key wickets.
Santner himself played a pivotal role, finishing with figures of 3-43, ensuring South Africa never gained the momentum needed to challenge the target.
“The key for the bowlers was to keep chipping away with wickets,” Santner said. “We always talk about applying pressure but still taking wickets, and it was pleasing to get three important scalps.”
New Zealand’s bowling depth also played a part, with four all-rounders contributing with spin, giving them the edge in restricting South Africa’s chase.
South Africa Left to Rue Missed Partnerships
South Africa’s captain Temba Bavuma, who contributed 56 runs, admitted his team fell short by not building crucial partnerships at the right time.
“From a batting point of view, we didn’t get those partnerships,” Bavuma said. “We needed either myself or Rassie van der Dussen to emulate what their top four did.”
At 125-1, South Africa looked well-placed, but wickets at regular intervals hurt their chances of mounting a serious challenge.
“We know how destructive our middle order can be in the last 20 overs, but we needed a better foundation to take advantage of that,” Bavuma added.
New Zealand Marches Into the Final
With this victory, New Zealand secures a place in the Champions Trophy final, where they will aim to lift the trophy for the first time. Their balanced batting and disciplined bowling attack make them a formidable contender in the tournament’s grand finale.
