New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner has won the toss and decided to bat first in the second semi-final of the Champions Trophy in Lahore on Wednesday. His aim is to put up a big total and put pressure on the opposition.
As soon as Temba Bavuma stepped onto the field for the toss, it was confirmed that the South African captain had returned to the lineup. Apart from his inclusion, the Proteas have made no changes to their squad. Meanwhile, New Zealand are sticking with the same XI that played in their loss against India.
After losing the toss, Bavuma admitted that South Africa also wanted to bat first. However, he expressed confidence in his bowlers, saying they are ready to take on the challenge of restricting the Kiwis to a low total.
Bavuma missed South Africa’s last group-stage match against England due to illness, with Aiden Markram leading the team in his absence. There were concerns about Markram’s fitness ahead of this crucial semi-final, but he has recovered in time, ensuring South Africa retain their key players.
Opener Devon Conway has once again been left out of New Zealand’s lineup. He struggled in the first two matches, scoring just 10 and 30 runs. Instead, the Kiwis have placed their trust in openers Will Young and Rachin Ravindra, both of whom have scored centuries in this tournament.
This will be the 12th time South Africa and New Zealand face off in an ICC ODI tournament. In their previous 11 encounters, New Zealand have won seven matches, while South Africa have won four.
However, in overall ODI head-to-head stats, South Africa have a significant advantage. Out of 73 matches, the Proteas have won 42, while New Zealand have secured victory in 26 games. Five matches ended with no result.
Playing XIs
New Zealand: Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (wk), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Will O’Rourke.
South Africa: Temba Bavuma (c), Ryan Rickelton, Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi.
