In the aftermath of South Africa’s 50-run defeat to New Zealand in the 2nd semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, David Miller on Champions Trophy 2025 Semi-Final didn’t hold back his frustration over the “not ideal” scheduling — while also acknowledging New Zealand’s deserved spot in the final against India.
The semifinal, held in Lahore, saw South Africa chasing a daunting 363-run target set by the Black Caps. Despite Miller’s fighting century — a gritty knock that came off the last ball of the innings — the Proteas fell short, with their middle-order collapse derailing the run chase.
✈️ David Miller on Champions Trophy 2025 Semi-Final: “Not Ideal” Scheduling
Speaking at the post-match press conference, David Miller on Champions Trophy 2025 Semi-Final expressed his disappointment about the team’s hectic travel schedule.
Due to the hybrid format of the Champions Trophy — a result of India’s refusal to play in Pakistan — South Africa had to:
- Travel from Pakistan to Dubai for their final group match.
- Return to Lahore within 24 hours for the semi-final — without playing a game in between.
Miller labeled the back-and-forth journey as “far from ideal,” admitting it impacted their preparation:
“It wasn’t the best situation for us. Traveling between two countries in such a short time without proper recovery or practice — it definitely played a part. But credit to New Zealand — they outplayed us.”
The Proteas’ lack of time to acclimatize may have contributed to their sluggish start with the ball and their struggle to build partnerships during the chase.
🏏 David Miller on New Zealand’s Performance
Despite the frustrations, David Miller on Champions Trophy 2025 Semi-Final was gracious in defeat, tipping his hat to Kane Williamson’s side for a clinical display.
New Zealand, powered by centuries from Kane Williamson (102) and Rachin Ravindra (108), posted a commanding 362/6. The duo added a crucial 164-run partnership for the second wicket, setting a platform that South Africa couldn’t match.
Miller praised the Kiwis’ consistency:
“New Zealand are a world-class side. Kane and Rachin batted superbly, and their bowlers kept us under pressure. They deserve to be in the final.”
🌟 What Went Wrong for South Africa?
While David Miller’s 100 off 94 balls* was a standout performance, the Proteas’ chase unraveled due to several factors:
- Middle-order collapse: After a steady start, quick wickets fell between the 25th and 35th overs, leaving too much for Miller to do alone.
- Struggles against spin: Mitchell Santner and Rachin Ravindra choked the run flow, exploiting South Africa’s struggles against spin in the middle overs.
- Ineffective bowling: Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen failed to break key partnerships early on, allowing New Zealand to build momentum.
🇳🇿 David Miller and Kane Williamson’s Post-Match Moment
A poignant moment followed the match when Kane Williamson and David Miller crossed paths at the press conference room.
Williamson, having just completed his media duties, shared a warm hug with Miller — a brief but telling gesture of mutual respect between two seasoned cricketers.
While Williamson walked away with his eyes set on the Champions Trophy final against India in Dubai on Sunday, David Miller on Champions Trophy 2025 Semi-Final stayed back — the sting of yet another semi-final exit for South Africa clearly visible.
🔥 Looking Ahead: New Zealand vs India Final
With the Proteas’ campaign ending in heartbreak, the focus now shifts to the final showdown:
- 🏟️ India vs New Zealand — Champions Trophy 2025 Final
- 📍 Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium
- 📅 Date: Sunday, March 9, 2025
While David Miller on Champions Trophy 2025 Semi-Final voiced his disappointment over the scheduling, his backing of New Zealand adds an extra layer of intrigue to the final — can Kane Williamson’s side finally lift the silverware, or will India’s unbeaten run at their “home away from home” continue?
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