The second semi-final match in the Champions Trophy 2025 will feature New Zealand taking on South Africa. The Kiwis started their campaign with a huge win over Pakistan by sixty runs. Will Young and Devon Conway scored centuries to kick off the campaign. This was followed by the win against Bangladesh, where Rachin Ravindra scored a ton. The final game of the league phase saw the Kiwis lose to India by 44 runs in Dubai.
South Africa have been one of the better teams when it comes to ICC tournaments, The Proteas had qualified for the semi-finals of the 2023 ODI World Cup. This was followed by their run to the finals of the T20 World Cup where they lost to India. Temba Bavuma and his side will also play the finals of the World Test Championship against Australia in June.
Here are the top three South African players to watch out for vs New Zealand:
3. Ryan Rickelton
Wicketkeeper batter Ryan Rickelton has shown the cricketing world why he is an able replacement for Quinton De Kock. The left-handed batter has already scored a century in the tournament in the game against Afghanistan. Rickelton has the natural ability to play attacking shots against the Pacers in the first few overs and can score runs at a quick pace. The Proteas star is also very good against the spinners with the use of his feet.
2. Keshav Maharaj
Veteran South African spinner Keshav Maharaj will hold the key when it comes to bowling. Maharaj has always been a huge threat with the ball in the middle-overs. After seeing New Zealand capitulate against the Indian spinners, one can expect Maharaj to play a key role with the ball against the likes of Kane Williamson and Tom Latham. The South African side will hope that their spinner is not only able to contain runs but also take wickets and hurt the Kiwi batters.
1. Heinrich Klaasen
Destructive batter Heinrich Klaasen made his first appearance in the Champions Trophy game against England on Saturday. Klaasen was quick to show the world why he is feared across the world with the bat in hand. The 32-year-old scored a fifty and helped his side win the game by seven wickets. Klaasen will hope to continue his big-hitting form and dent the Kiwi bowlers, especially Mitchell Santner, who has been at his economical best with the ball.
Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.
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