Australia Cricket Team skipper Pat Cummins opened up about why Scott Boland wasn't included in the XI for the final of the ICC World Test Championship against South Africa. He said that there are a lot of games coming and he will get his chances. 
On the eve of the final of the ICC World Test Championship, the Australian cricket Team announced their playing XI for the final against South Africa. What caught the attention of many was that Scott Boland didn't feature in the team, and it raised many eyebrows. 
This is because Scott Boland has been one of the major reasons behind the success of Australia in the final of the ICC World Test Championship. The premier pacer was in a red-hot form during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 and helped his team win the series by the margin of 3-1. 
With the kind of form that he has been in, it was expected that Scott Boland would be there for the final against South Africa. However, that wasn't the case as Australia went with the pace trio of Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc and skipper Pat Cummins.
<h2>I think the message to Scottie is there's a lot of Test cricket coming up in the next couple of years - Pat Cummins</h2>
During the press conference, skipper Pat Cummins talked about the omission of Scott Boland, saying that he is unfortunate to miss out. But he sent a message to the pacer, saying that this wasn't the last game of his career. Speaking to reporters, he said: 
"There are some guys where you genuinely say you know you've done nothing wrong, don't change a thing. And Scottie's is just really unfortunate to miss out. Joshie Hazel comes back in, we know how good he is. 
"But I think the message to Scottie is there's a lot of Test cricket coming up in the next couple of years and just because you're mid-30s doesn't mean, you know, you're missing this test and that's one test off your career." 
Scott Boland has picked 56 wickets from 13 Test matches so far at an average of 17.66. The fast bowler also has bagged two five-wicket hauls and one ten-wicket haul to his name.
<div class="OptimizedContent_contentContainer__RmG82">
<article class="OptimizedContent_articleContent__Fdpi0 article_articleContent__XBn4f ">
<div class="OptimizedContent_contentContainer__RmG82">
<article class="OptimizedContent_articleContent__Fdpi0 article_articleContent__XBn4f ">
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/preview/south-africa-announces-playing-11-for-the-icc-wtc-final-against-australia-/">South Africa announces playing 11 for the ICC WTC Final against Australia</a>
</article>
</div>
</article>
</div>

Scott Boland has picked 56 wickets from 13 Test matches so far at an average of 17.66

Australia Cricket Team skipper Pat Cummins opened up about why Scott Boland wasn't included in the XI for the final of the ICC World Test Championship against South Africa.

Revealed- Why Scott Boland wasn't picked in Australia XI for the ICC World Test Championship final

revealed-why-scott-boland-wasn-t-picked-in-australia-xi-for-the-icc-world-test-championship-final-

South Africa vs Australia: Australia, the defending champions, take on South Africa for the third <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ICC_World_Test_Championship" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ICC World Test Championship,</a> which will be held from the 11th of June at Lord's.
The Aussies might be the defending champions and are given an upper hand due to their experienced squad and exposure to English conditions. However, the Proteas are also cited as one of the toughest opponents in red-ball cricket, and Stuart Broad's inclusion is a smart move by the CSA to get access to English conditions.
However, other than the two teams chasing the title, several players also chase individual glory in this WTC final encounter.
<h2 dir="ltr">Major Milestones Ahead of the WTC Final:</h2>
<h3 dir="ltr">1. Skipper Pat Cummins nearing 300 Test scalps</h3>
<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pat_Cummins">Pat Cummins</a>, the legendary skipper for the Aussies, having earned them glory in ICC tournaments, is now himself at the brink of rewriting history, as he is 6 wickets away from being the 8th Australian with 300 test wickets.
However, the Australian skipper will be the first Australian captain with 300 test wickets as well. Also, both Pat Cummins (73) and Mitchell Starc (72) are 5 and 6 wickets away from surpassing Jasprit Bumrah to be the highest wicket-takers of this WTC cycle.
<h3 dir="ltr">2. Kagiso Rabada chasing Sir Allan Donald's tally</h3>
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202506/image_430x256_684934088062a.jpg" alt="Rabada nearing Allan Donald's record in tests" width="829" height="516">
South African great Allan Donald is currently chasing country great Allan Donald to be the fourth-highest wicket-taker in the format and feature alongside greats like Dale Steyn and Shaun Pollock.
Rabada now has 327 wickets, and 4 more wickets in this WTC final can take him past Allan Donald's career tally of 330 wickets.
<h3 dir="ltr">3. 2 wickets, and Keshav Maharaj is the first Protea spinner with 200 test scalps</h3>
Legendary spinners—no, this has not been the story of the South African test side, as Keshav Maharaj, the left-arm spinner with 2 more wickets to come, will be the first spinner to have 200 wickets in red-ball cricket for South Africa.
<h3 dir="ltr">4. Usman Khawaja nears the 6000-run mark in Test cricket</h3>
The Australian test opener has 5930 runs scored in 80 test matches as of yet in a test career that was full of highs and lows.
However, Khawaja, set to star in his second WTC final, has the chance to grab this opportunity to get to his 6000 test run mark with 70 more runs across the two innings of the Lord's test.
<h3 dir="ltr">5. Travis Head needs 182 runs to be the first batter with 500 runs in ICC finals</h3>
Head the hero for Aussies in the finals of recent ICC trophies, especially when they are playing against India. Travis Head scored 318 runs in just 3 ICC finals innings, with two huge hundreds in winning causes. He was named the POTM for his 163 in the WTC final and 137 in the ICC CWC final back in 2023.
Head, with 182 more runs, can reach to 500 runs in the finals, going past Virat Kohli, who has 410 runs in 10 innings of ICC finals he has appeared in. 
ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/csk-star-ruturaj-gaikwad-now-in-england-for-the-remainder-of-the-county-season-and-royal-london-one-day-cup/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ruturaj Gaikwad in for Yorkshire in the remaining of the County Season </a>

5 major milestones that can be reached during the South Africa vs Australia WTC Final 2025

Australia, the defending champions, take on South Africa for the third ICC World Test Championship, which will be held from the 11th of June at Lord's. Major milestones ahead of the WTC Final for players from both Australia and South Africa.

5-major-milestones-that-can-be-reached-during-the-south-africa-vs-australia-wtc-final-2025

South Africa Cricket Team has announced the playing XI for the final of the ICC World Test Championship against Australia Cricket Team. The summit clash will be taking place at the Lord's Cricket Ground in London from Wednesday (11th June). 
Aiden Markram will be opening the innings for South Africa along with Ryan Rickelton. The duo are in good form and will be holding a key for the team in the format. They were part of the IPL 2025 and played a massive role for their respective teams in the tournament. 
At number three, Wiaan Mulder will be batting. He is also expected to play a huge role with the ball. The all-rounder will be followed by skipper Temba Bavuma. The right-hander has been one of the finest players in the format and would want to make a massive impact and lead from the front. 
Tristan Stubbs has been slotted to bat at five. The right-hander has shown great promise in Test cricket and will be holding the key for the team in the middle order along with David Bedingham and keeper-batter Kyle Verreynne, who have been named in the XI as well. 
Marco Jansen will be the fast bowling all-rounder for South Africa in the ICC WTC Final against Australia. He will be accompanied by Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi in the fast bowling department. While Keshav Maharaj is the frontline spinner in the team.
<h2>South Africa playing XI for the ICC WTC Final against Australia </h2>
Here's South Africa playing XI for the ICC WTC Final against Australia 
Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Wiaan Mulder, Temba Bavuma, Tristan Stubbs, David Bedingham, Kyle Verreynne, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi.
<div class="OptimizedContent_contentContainer__RmG82">
<article class="OptimizedContent_articleContent__Fdpi0 article_articleContent__XBn4f ">
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/india-tour-to-australia-2025-dates-announced-/">India tour to Australia 2025 dates announced</a>
</article>
</div>

outh Africa announces playing 11 for the ICC WTC Final against Australia  {PC:X}

Aiden Markram will be opening the innings for South Africa along with Ryan Rickelton.

South Africa Cricket Team has announced the playing XI for the final of the ICC World Test Championship against Australia Cricket Team

South Africa announces playing 11 for the ICC WTC Final against Australia

south-africa-announces-playing-11-for-the-icc-wtc-final-against-australia-

The South Africa National Cricket Team has announced the squad for the two-match Test series against the Zimbabwe Cricket Team. Young batter Dewald Brevis has been included in the team and is expected to make his debut in the series. 
After the final of the ICC World Test Championship 2025, South Africa is all set to lock horns with the Zimbabwe Cricket Team in the two-match series. The first game will be played on 28th June, while the second match is scheduled to take place from 6th July. Both games will be played at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. 
South Africa has rested the main players for the series and has added five uncapped players to the team. The likes of Lhuan-dré Pretorius, Lesego Senokwane, Prenelan Subrayen, Codi Yusuf and Dewald Brevis have been named in the squad and would want to make a massive impact. 
Dewald Brevis played a magnificent brand of cricket in domestic cricket last year. He also was part of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL 2025. He played a fearless brand of cricket and was one of the shining lights for the team in the tournament. 
Apart from the five uncapped players, Cricket South Africa took some harsh calls. They didn't consider Nandre Burger, Gerald Coetzee and Lizaad Williams for selection. Temba Bavuma will be leading the series and would want to win the series. 
<h2>South Africa squad for the test series against Zimbabwe </h2>
Here's South Africa squad for the test series against Zimbabwe: 
Temba Bavuma (captain), David Bedingham, Matthew Breetzke, Dewald Brevis, Corbin Bosch, Tony de Zorzi, Zubayr Hamza, Keshav Maharaj, Kwena Maphaka, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Lhuan-dré Pretorius, Lesego Senokwane, Prenelan Subrayen, Kyle Verreynne and Codi Yusuf. 
Schedule of Zimbabwe vs South Africa test series 
28 June – 02 July at 10:00
Zimbabwe vs South Africa – Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo 
06 – 10 July at 10:00
Zimbabwe vs South Africa – Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo

South Africa announces squad for Zimbabwe Tests  {PC:X}

The South Africa National Cricket Team has announced the squad for the two-match Test series against the Zimbabwe Cricket Team.

Young batter Dewald Brevis has been included in the team and is expected to make his debut in the series. 

Dewald Brevis to make test debut? South Africa announces squad for Zimbabwe Tests

dewald-brevis-to-make-test-debut-south-africa-announces-squad-for-zimbabwe-tests-

South Africa's star batsman Heinrich Klaasen has shocked the Cricketing world with a heartbreaking announcement as he has taken the hard decision of retiring from international cricket. Klaasen participated in 4 Tests, 60 ODIs and 58 T20Is, scoring nearly 3,300 runs and scoring 4 centuries in ODIs for the Proteas. He has announced this retirement decision in order to spend time with his loved ones. He is the second batsman to announce his retirement from ODI cricket today after Glenn Maxwell. He plays for 2016 winners Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the Tata IPL. 
Must Read - <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ipl-2025-former-rcb-player-feels-that-the-qualifier-1-between-pbks-and-rcb-will-be-humdinger-of-a-game/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">IPL 2025: Former RCB player feels that the Qualifier 1 between PBKS and RCB will be humdinger of a game</a>
<h2> A brilliant innings was played in the final of T20I World Cup</h2>

This 33-year-old batsman batted brilliantly in the final of the T20I World Cup last year. In this match against Team India, he scored 52 runs in 27 balls with the help of 2 fours and 5 sixes. As long as he was on the crease, South Africa was expected to win, but as soon as he was out, the whole team fell apart and Team India won the match by 6 runs and won the title.

He wrote in an Instagram post, "It is with a heavy heart that I announce my retirement from international cricket. After much contemplation, I have come to the conclusion that this is the best choice for me and my family moving forward. It was an incredibly tough decision, but it was necessary. Playing for my country has been the highest honour of my life. This has been a dream of mine since childhood, and I dedicated myself to achieving it."

"During my time with the national team, I built many wonderful friendships and created lasting relationships that I will treasure forever. Representing South Africa allowed me to connect with incredible individuals who had a profound impact on my life, and I find it hard to express my gratitude to them. My journey to donning the South African jersey was unique compared to most, and there were several coaches in my career who consistently had faith in me, for which I will always be thankful." he wrote.

He further writes, "Wearing the South African crest on my chest has been, and will always be, the greatest privilege of my career. I am excited about the opportunity to spend more time with my family, as my choice to retire enables me to do that. I will continue to be a strong supporter of the African team and want to express my gratitude to everyone who has stood by me and my teammates during my career."

<h2>A brilliant international career </h2>
The explosive wicket-keeper batsman has played only 4 Test matches for South Africa, in which he has scored 104 runs at an average of 13. Apart from this, he has played 60 ODI matches for the country. In this, he has scored a total of 2,141 runs at an average of 43.68. This includes four tons and eleven half-centuries. Klaasen has taken part in 58 T20 International matches for South Africa. In this, he has scored a thousand runs at an average of 23.25. This includes 5 fifties.
Do Read - <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/with-the-defeat-against-rcb-the-entire-lucknow-team-including-rishabh-pant-got-a-big-shock-bcci-imposed-a-fine-of-so-many-crores/">With the defeat against RCB, the entire Lucknow team including Rishabh Pant got a big shock, BCCI imposed a fine of so many crores</a>

South African star Heinrich Klaasen retires from international cricket at 33 to focus on family. The explosive batsman scored 2,141 ODI runs (4 centuries) and famously smashed 52 off 27 in the 2023 T20 WC final. He'll continue playing IPL for Sunrisers Hyderabad.

South Africa's explosive wicketkeeper-batter Heinrich Klaasen has announced his retirement from international cricket at age 33, following teammate Glenn Maxwell's similar decision earlier in the day. Klaasen, who played 4 Tests, 60 ODIs (2,141 runs, 4 centuries), and 58 T20Is (1,000+ runs) for the Proteas, cited family time as his priority in an emotional Instagram post. His career highlight included a blistering 52 off 27 balls in the 2024 T20 World Cup final against India, where his dismissal triggered South Africa's collapse in a narrow 6-run defeat. Known for his aggressive batting in the middle order, Klaasen thanked coaches, teammates, and fans, calling his international journey "the greatest privilege." While retiring from national duty, he will continue playing franchise cricket, including for IPL's Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Heinrich Klaasen, the nightmare for bowlers in T20 Cricket announces his retirement from all formats of the game

heinrich-klaasen-the-nightmare-for-bowlers-in-t20-cricket-announces-his-retirement-from-all-formats-of-the-game

In what has been the latest development, as per the reports in Cricbuzz, it is learned that South African players are all set to miss the playoffs of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. This is because they have been asked by the Cricket South Africa to return home by 26th May. 
The IPL 2025 is all set to resume on 17th May after being suspended for one week due to the tensions between India and Pakistan. However, this also changed the schedule of the tournament as earlier it was set to conclude on 25th May but now will end on 3rd June. 
The problem that South African players are facing is that just after the IPL, they will be taking on Australia in the final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. In all, 20 Proteas players are part of the league, and out of them, 8 have been named in the team for the ICC clash. 
The likes of Corbin Bosch (Mumbai Indians), Wiaan Mulder (Sunrisers Hyderabad) Marco Jansen (Punjab Kings), Aiden Markram (Lucknow SuperGiants), Lungi Ngidi (Royal Challengers Bengaluru), Kagiso Rabada (Gujarat Titans), Ryan Rickelton (Mumbai Indians) and Tristan Stubbs (Delhi Capitals) have been named in the team. 
While Sunrisers Hyderabad and Lucknow Super Giants players might get free early, the problem will be there for the Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Gujarat Titans and Punjab Kings, who are very much in contention to play the final of the IPL 2025. 
Cricket South Africa has asked the players to assemble on 31st May in England. First, they will be locking horns with Zimbabwe in the four-day clash as preparation before taking on Australia. The final of the ICC World Test Championship will be taking place at the Lord's Cricket Ground in London from 11th June. 
<h2>We want our players back on the 26th, and hopefully that comes to fruition - South Africa head coach Shukri Conrad</h2>
South Africa head coach Shukri Conrad mentioned that all their players are due to return on 26th May as a part of the agreement with BCCI. He said that they are in talks with the Indian board, and hopefully, all their players will be back in time. Speaking to Cricbuzz, he said: 
"The initial agreement with the IPL and the BCCI was with the final being on the (May) 25th, our players would return on the 26th so that it allows them ample time before we fly out on the 30th. Nothing has changed from our perspective. 
"That is the ongoing conversations that are being had between people in a higher pay grade than I am, i.e. the Director of Cricket (Enoch Nkwe) and Pholetsi Moseki (CSA CEO), so they're dealing with that. But as it stands, we're not budging on that, I don't think. We want our players back on the 26th, and hopefully that comes to fruition."
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/bcci-declines-virat-kohli-s-request-to-take-over-test-captaincy-again-massive-details-leaked-/">BCCI declines Virat Kohli's request to take over Test captaincy again. Massive details leaked!</a>

Blow for IPL franchises! South Africa players to miss IPL playoffs due to...  {PC:X}

In what has been the latest development, as per the reports in Cricbuzz, it is learned that South African players are all set to miss the playoffs of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025.

The IPL 2025 is all set to resume on 17th May after being suspended for one week due to the tensions between India and Pakistan.

Blow for IPL franchises! South Africa players to miss IPL playoffs due to...

blow-for-ipl-franchises-south-africa-players-to-miss-ipl-playoffs-due-to-

Cricket South Africa has named a settled and balanced 15-player squad for the ICC World Test Championship Final 2025, set to take place against Australia at Lord’s from June 11. Led by Temba Bavuma, the squad features a strong pace unit, experienced batters, and returning key players, with fast bowler Lungi Ngidi making a much-anticipated comeback.
<h2>Ngidi, Rabada Lead Powerful Pace Attack</h2>
After missing the home summer due to a groin injury, Lungi Ngidi returns to the red-ball setup and adds depth to South Africa’s already potent fast-bowling department. He will join Kagiso Rabada, who is cleared for selection after serving a brief suspension in April. Alongside them are Marco Jansen, Wiaan Mulder, Corbin Bosch, and Dane Paterson — forming a six-man pace unit built for English conditions.
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202505/image_430x256_682328b926237.jpg" alt="">
Notably, young speedsters Gerald Coetzee and Kwena Maphaka have been left out, while Anrich Nortje and Nandre Burger were unavailable due to injury recovery and lack of recent red-ball action.
Cricket Australia also announced their squad earlier Today, click to check
<h2>Familiar Faces in the Batting Unit</h2>
The Proteas have stuck with their core group of batters from the current WTC cycle. Openers Tony de Zorzi and Ryan Rickelton will compete for the spot alongside Aiden Markram, while Bavuma is set to return at No.4 after recovering from an elbow niggle. Middle-order batters David Bedingham and rising star Tristan Stubbs are also in the mix.
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202505/image_430x256_682328b6884f6.jpg" alt="">
Kyle Verreynne retains his place as the first-choice wicketkeeper, bringing valuable experience in English conditions, having played county cricket this season.
<h2>Spin Options and Team Preparation</h2>
Spin duties will be handled by senior left-armer Keshav Maharaj and all-rounder Senuran Muthusamy. Both add variety and balance, especially important in the second innings at Lord’s.
Head coach Shukri Conrad emphasized the squad's consistency and strength, saying: “We’ve kept faith in the players who delivered across this WTC cycle. Lungi’s return is a big boost. The squad is well-suited for English conditions.”
Players currently involved in the IPL — including Rabada, Ngidi, Markram, and Jansen — will rejoin the squad by May 31. A warm-up match against Zimbabwe is scheduled from June 3 as part of their preparation.
<h2>South Africa SQUAD FOR WTC FINAL 2025</h2>
Temba Bavuma (capt), David Bedingham, Corbin Bosch, Tony de Zorzi, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Lungi Ngidi, Dane Paterson, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne

South Africa SQUAD FOR WTC FINAL 2025 ANNOUNCED! Check All the Updates Here

South Africa announced a balanced 15-player squad for the WTC Final 2025, featuring the return of Lungi Ngidi and leadership of Temba Bavuma, with a strong pace attack for Lord’s.

South Africa’s WTC Final 2025 squad includes Bavuma, Rabada, and Ngidi, aiming for glory with a pace-heavy lineup.

south-africa-squad-for-wtc-final-2025-announced-check-all-the-updates-here

NZ vs SA Semifinal: In a thrilling showdown at Gaddafi Stadium, New Zealand delivered a commanding performance, crushing South Africa by a huge margin in the second semifinal of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
With this decisive victory, the Kiwis have booked their spot in the grand finale, where they will take on India in a high-stakes battle for glory at the Dubai International Stadium on March 9.
The Kiwi batter set the big total and gave a lot of room to their bowlers. Kane and Rachin Ravindra starred at the top, and Glenn Phillips gave the finishing touches to get past 350. Mitchell Santner bowled exceptional spells and dismantled the middle order. David Miller gave his all in the chase, but it was New Zealand who defeated South Africa to seal the deal.
<h2>New Zealand vs South Africa Match Summary</h2>
New Zealand won the toss, and Santner had no doubt to bat first. The captain made the call, and the batters delivered at the top. After Will Young's wicket inside the powerplay, South Africa hustled for the next 15 overs to get the second wicket. The commanding partnership between Rachin and Kane Williamson set the stage for the middle order to put forth a big total against the Proteas. 
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202503/image_430x256_67c87c194596b.jpg" alt="">
Rachin and Kane both smacked thundering centuries, carrying a strike rate of over 100. After Rachin's dismissal, Daryl Mitchell came and gave pace to the momentum, smacking a valuable 49 off 37 balls. Mulder removed Williamson and Latham followed him soon. 
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202503/image_430x256_67c87c1d67a2a.jpg" alt="">
At that time, it seemed like New Zealand would post around 300, but Phillips had other ideas. Phillips wreaked havoc in the last five overs that took New Zealand's score past 350. Glenn Phillips smashed 49 unbeaten in just 27 balls. Lungi Ngidi was the most successful bowler for South Africa, taking three wickets. South Africa had 363 to chase in 50 overs.
It was a batting track for sure, and South Africa lost their in-form opener Ryan <a href="https://www.cricbuzz.com/profiles/13070/ryan-rickelton" title="View profile of Ryan Rickelton" class="cb-text-link">Rickelton</a> under 20 runs. Skipper Bavuma and Van Der Dussen stitched a 105-run partnership. Just when everyone expected that South Africa would press the accelerator, Santner got the better of Bavuma (56). Santner bowled out Van Der Dussen soon for a well-made 69. 
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202503/image_430x256_67c87c27300b8.jpg" alt="">
South Africa lost quick wickets after that, and all of a sudden, New Zealand took control of the match. David Miller tried his best from one end, but wickets kept falling at the other end. David Miller smoked a fabulous last-ball century, but it went in vain as NEW ZEALAND defeated SOUTH AFRICA by 50  runs.
<h2>IND vs NZ Final on March 9</h2>
India defeated Australia in the first Semifinal at Dubai International Stadium by 4 wickets. Today, after defeating South Africa, New Zealand have reached the final. It is going to be INDIA VS NEW ZEALAND in the final of ICC CHAMPIONS TROPHY 2025.
The match will be played at the Dubai International Stadium on March 9. The match is set to start at 2:30 IST.

NZ vs SA: New Zealand Stuns South Africa, Sets Up IND vs NZ Final in ICC Champions Trophy 2025!

New Zealand outclassed South Africa by 50 runs to storm into the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final. Their composed knockout performance contrasts with South Africa’s recurring struggles in ICC semi-finals and finals.

New Zealand’s dominant 50-run win seals their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final spot, while South Africa endures another heartbreaking knockout loss. Take a look at the match summary of the NZ vs SA Semifinal

nz-vs-sa-new-zealand-stuns-south-africa-sets-up-ind-vs-nz-final-in-icc-champions-trophy-2025-

NZ vs SA Semifinal: After a mouth-watering contest between India and Australia, the stage is set for another thrilling clash between the other two semifinalists- it is time for New Zealand vs South Africa in the second semifinal of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
New Zealand were slotted in Group A, along with India, host Pakistan, and Bangladesh. India topped the points table with three wins in three matches, while New Zealand ended up in second rank. They won against Pakistan and Bangladesh but couldn't get past India. 
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202502/image_430x256_67b5fedc943b2.jpg" alt="">
South Africa, on the other hand, won two games out of three, with one ending in a washout. They gathered commanding victories over Afghanistan and England, leading them to the top of the table. 
<h2>NZ vs SA, Squads and Playing11s</h2>
New Zealand Squad: Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham(w), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner(c), Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, William O'Rourke, Jacob Duffy, Devon Conway, Mark Chapman, Nathan Smith
Probable Playing11: Will Young, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Rachin Ravindra, Tom Latham (wk), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (capt), Nathan Smith, Matt Henry, Will O'Rourke
South Africa Squad: Ryan Rickelton, Temba Bavuma(c), Rassie van der Dussen, Heinrich Klaasen(w), David Miller, Marco Jansen, George Linde, Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Aiden Markram, Tristan Stubbs, Corbin Bosch, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tony de Zorzi
Probable Playing11: Ryan Rickelton, Temba Bavuma (capt), Rassie van der Dussen, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), David Miller, Marco Jansen, George Linde, Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202502/image_430x256_67b8b0d2328d6.jpg" alt="">
<h2>NZ vs SA, Gaddafi Stadium Pitch Report</h2>
The surface at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore has been a paradise for batters throughout this Champions Trophy, with an impressive average scoring rate of 6.65. The pitch offers good pace and bounce, making stroke play easier. Fast bowlers may find little assistance from the deck, especially under hot conditions, and will have to rely on variations and hard lengths to make an impact. 
Spinners, on the other hand, have accounted for around 39% of the wickets and are expected to find some turn, particularly in the second innings. Given the nature of the track, teams winning the toss might prefer to chase unless the pitch is unusually dry. Another high-scoring encounter is likely, as the flat surface continues to favor aggressive batting.
<h2>Gaddafi Stadium ODI Stats</h2>
Total Matches Played: 76 Matches Won Batting First: 38 Matches Won Chasing: 36 Average 1st Innings Score: 256
<h3>Record-Breaking Totals</h3>
Highest Team Total: 375/3 (50 Ovs) – Pakistan vs Zimbabwe (2015) Lowest Team Total: 75/10 (22.5 Ovs) – Pakistan vs Sri Lanka (2009) Highest Successful Run Chase: 356/5 (47.3 Ovs) – Australia vs England (2025) Lowest Total Successfully Defended: 170/8 (40 Ovs) – West Indies vs Pakistan (1980)
<h3>Individual Brilliance</h3>
Most Runs at the Venue: Shoaib Malik (Pakistan) – 1030 Runs Highest Individual Score: Ibrahim Zadran (Afghanistan) – 177 vs England (2025) Most Sixes Hit: Shoaib Malik (Pakistan) – 18
<h2>Lahore weather Forecast</h2>
Lahore is set for a pleasant day on Wednesday, with clear skies and a maximum temperature of around 22-23 degrees Celsius. Last week's rain has given way to dry and sunny conditions, ensuring no interruptions for the semi-final clash. With ideal weather for cricket and no threat of showers, fans can expect an uninterrupted and thrilling contest on a batting-friendly surface. 
<h2>NZ vs SA, Who Will Win?</h2>
New Zealand and South Africa are strong when it comes to comparison. Even on man-to-man marking, you won't be able to place one team above the other and this competition have made things more exciting. 
One thing that gives an edge to New Zealand over South Africa is that New Zealand's performance in eliminators have been better than South Africa's, but not by a big lead. We saw how South Africa panicked in the ICC T20 World Cup final last year, losing a match from a winning situation. New Zealand never leave a chance; in fact, they don't need a second chance to make their way. 
If New Zealand bat first, they are probably going to win the match and enter the final. However, there is no doubt about what South Africa can do with their explosive batting lineup.

Gaddafi Stadium Pitch Report and Weather Forecast

The two fierce teams are all set to have a bout against each other in the stage of semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The winner will play against India at Dubai in the Finals.

For an exciting battle between New Zealand and South Africa, the stage of Gaddafi Stadium is set and fans are waiting to see, who will win 2nd Semifinal between New Zealand and South Africa.

NZ vs SA, Who will WIN 2nd Semifinal? Gaddafi Stadium Pitch Report, Lahore Weather Forecast, and Strongest Playing11 Prediction

nz-vs-sa-who-will-win-2nd-semifinal-gaddafi-stadium-pitch-report-lahore-weather-forecast-and-strongest-playing11-prediction

The ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025, being played in Pakistan and the UAE, has reached its business end as the group stage phase of the tournament has concluded. The eight participating teams were divided into two groups consisting of four teams each, with Bangladesh, Team India, Pakistan, and New Zealand forming Group-A , while Group-B consisted of England, Afghanistan, Australia &amp; South Africa. 
The first group got early semi-final confirmations as both Team India and New Zealand won their opening two contests versus Bangladesh &amp; Pakistan respectively to seal their spots in the knockout phase. 
The Men in Blue defeated the Kiwis in the final group-A clash to finish off the group stage phase as the table toppers. Both Bangladesh and the host Pakistan didn't perform well and failed to advance to the knockout stage, thereby being eliminated from the tournament. 
Talking about the second group, i.e, Group-B, the Aussies became the first team to secure the semi-finals berth as they secured easy wins over arch-rivals England and Afghanistan while their encounter versus South Africa was washed out due to rain. 
South Africa, on the other hand, won versus Afghanistan and England to become the fourth &amp; final team to qualify for the all-important semi-finals phase of the Champions Trophy. 
The Rohit Sharma-led Team India will be squaring off versus arch-rivals Australia in the first semi-final, scheduled to be played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai on the 4th of March. 
Mitchell Santner &amp; his men will face off the Proteas in the second semi-final at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on the 5th of March. 
If the Indian team manages to defeat the Australians and qualifies for the all-important Trophy deciding clash of the ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025 on the 9th of March, then the Final will be played in Dubai. In case the Men in Blue get defeated in the semis, then Lahore will play host to the Final.
Ahead of these exciting encounters, let's take a look at the important information you need to know related to the semi-finals of the ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025.
<h2>ICC Champions Trophy Semi-finals: Qualified teams</h2>
India (Group-A), New Zealand (Group-A), South Africa (Group-B) and Australia (Group-B) 
<h2>ICC Champions Trophy Semi-finals: Full Schedule, dates and timings of the matches</h2>
4th of March, Tuesday: 1st Semi-final - India versus Australia at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai, 2:30 PM IST (Indian Standard Time) 
5th of March, Wednesday: 2nd Semi-final - New Zealand versus South Africa at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, 2:30 PM IST (Indian Standard Time)
<h2>ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Semi-finals: Venues for the semi-finals</h2>
1. Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai (India versus Australia) 
2. Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore (New Zealand versus South Africa) 
<h2>ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Semi-finals: Live Streaming &amp; Telecast details</h2>
<h4>When and Where will the first semi-final between Team India and Australia take place? </h4>
The first semi-final of the ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025 between Team India and Australia will be played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai on Tuesday, 4th of March. The match will commence from 2:30 PM IST (Indian Standard Time) onwards
<h4>When and Where will the second semi-final between New Zealand &amp; South Africa take place? </h4>
The second semi-final of the ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025 between New Zealand and South Africa will be played at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Wednesday, 5th of March. The match will commence from 2:30 PM IST (Indian Standard Time) onwards.
<h4>Which Television channel will telecast the ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025 matches between India - Australia and New Zealand - South Africa? </h4>
The ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025 matches between India - Australia and New Zealand - South Africa will be telecasted live on the Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD and Sports 18 1 HD channels. 
<h4>Which OTT platform will live stream the ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025 matches between India - Australia and New Zealand - South Africa? </h4>
The ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025 matches between India - Australia and New Zealand - South Africa will be exclusively live-streamed on the application &amp; website of Jio Hotstar for free. 
<h4>ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Semi-finals: Full Squads of all four teams</h4>
India: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill (Vice-captain), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (WK), Rishabh Pant (WK), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Mohd. Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Ravindra Jadeja, Varun Chakaravarthy
Australia: Steve Smith (Captain), Sean Abbott, Ben Dwarshuis, Alex Carey, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Nathan Ellis, Travis Head, Aaron Hardie, Spencer Johnson, Josh Inglis, Glenn Maxwell,  Marnus Labuschagne, Matthew Short, Tanveer Sangha and Adam Zampa.
New Zealand: Mitchell Santner (Captain), Mark Chapman, Michael Bracewell, Kyle Jamieson, Devon Conway, Tom Latham, Matt Henry,  Will O’Rourke, Daryl Mitchell, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Kane Williamson, Nathan Smith, Jacob Duffy and Will Young.
South Africa: Temba Bavuma (Captain), Marco Jansen, Tony de Zorzi, Keshav Maharaj, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Aiden Markram,  Lungi Ngidi, Wiaan Mulder, Ryan Rickelton, Kagiso Rabada, Tristan Stubbs, Tabraiz Shamsi, Corbin Bosch and Rassie van der Dussen.
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/three-matches-three-wins-india-tops-over-new-zealand-in-dominating-fashion-check-updated-champions-trophy-points-table-2025-after-ind-vs-nz/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Three Matches, Three Wins! India TOPS over New Zealand in Dominating Fashion! Check Updated Champions Trophy Points Table 2025 After IND vs NZ</a>

2025 ICC Champions Trophy: India vs Australia 1st Semi-Final (L) and New Zealand vs South Africa 2nd Semi-Final (R) | Image Credits: Instagram (ESPNcricinfo)

2025 ICC Champions Trophy: The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final match-ups have been confirmed. Team India will face Australia in the first semi-final on Tuesday in Dubai, and New Zealand will play South Africa in the second semi-final on Wednesday in Lahore. Check out the Full Schedule, venues, dates, live streaming details, and timings of the semi-finals in this article.

2025 ICC Champions Trophy:  South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, and India are the teams competing in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semifinals. India will play Australia in the first semi-final on March 4, 2025, at Dubai International Cricket Stadium. New Zealand and South Africa will face off in the second semi-final on March 5, 2025, at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.

ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Semi Finals: Full Schedule, venues, dates, live streaming details and timings

icc-champions-trophy-2025-semi-finals-full-schedule-venues-dates-live-streaming-details-and-timings

South Africa National Cricket Teams latest news, match report and updates

South Africa

Ravi Shastri, who is rated as one of the best coaches in Indian cricket, has snubbed Kuldeep Yadav from his playing XI for the first test

No Kuldeep Yadav! Ravi Shastri names his Indian XI for first test against England

no-kuldeep-yadav-ravi-shastri-names-his-indian-xi-for-first-test-against-england-

India fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has opened up about not accepting the Test captaincy.

Jasprit Bumrah finally breaks silence on why he said no to India Test captaincy

jasprit-bumrah-finally-breaks-silence-on-why-he-said-no-to-india-test-captaincy-

ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 Full Schedule: India vs Pakistan on October 5, Match Dates, Venues & Fixtures Out

icc-women-s-odi-world-cup-2025-full-schedule-india-vs-pakistan-on-october-5-match-dates-venues-fixtures-out

Dindigul Dragons skipper Ravichandran Ashwin has come under a massive scanner amid the ongoing Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) 2025

Ravichandran Ashwin accused of ball-tampering in TNPL 2025

ravichandran-ashwin-accused-of-ball-tampering-in-tnpl-2025-

Indian cricketer Karun Nair made a shocking statement ahead of his comeback in the Test series against England.