Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamsons Blazing Centuries Propel New Zealand to 362 in ICC Champions Trophy Semi-Final

The second semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy saw New Zealand take on South Africa, with the Kiwis opting to bat first. The decision proved to be a wise one, as centuries from Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson set the platform for a massive total. The partnership between the two centurions yielded 164 runs, providing the perfect launchpad for the rest of the innings. Ravindra, in particular, was in a murderous mood, taking on the South African bowlers with ease and smashing three cracking boundaries in an over from Marco Jansen.

As the innings progressed, Williamson also started to cut loose, playing some exquisite shots, including a scoop against Kagiso Rabada. The introduction of Keshav Maharaj did slow down the boundaries for a while, but both Ravindra and Williamson smashed him for a six each, showcasing their dominance. The acceleration in the innings was hallmark, with Williamson taking only 30 balls for his second fifty. However, he couldn't carry forward at the death, falling to a fuller delivery from Rabada. The primary keyword, ICC Champions Trophy, was on full display as New Zealand's batting lineup delivered a strong performance.

With both centurions and Tom Latham back in the pavilion, New Zealand needed Daryl Mitchell to carry over the hitting duties. Mitchell initially struggled to find the boundary but finally ticked that box in the 27th delivery, helping him kick on and take the attack to the South African bowlers. Glenn Phillips then joined the fun, smashing four successive boundaries off Jansen, as New Zealand hammered an impressive 83 runs from the final six overs to post a commanding total of 362 for 6. The ICC Champions Trophy semi-final had truly come alive, with New Zealand's batting performance setting the tone for a thrilling encounter.