ICC Hall of Famer Ricky Ponting has weighed in on the highly anticipated second semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, predicting that South Africa will edge past New Zealand in Lahore on Wednesday.
March 5, 2025: The Proteas are on a roll, having reached yet another ICC event knockout stage after making the 2024 T20 World Cup final and qualifying for the upcoming ICC World Test Championship final. With momentum on their side, they aim to continue their impressive run by securing a place in the Champions Trophy final.
Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: SA vs NZ Semi-Final: Predicted Playing XI, Key Player Updates
Standing in their way is a formidable New Zealand side, packed with world-class talent and known for their ability to rise to big occasions. Both teams are ranked inside the ICC’s top five in ODIs, making this an evenly matched showdown.
Despite the close contest on paper, Ponting believes South Africa has the slight upper hand. Speaking on The ICC Review Podcast with Sanjana Ganesan, he explained why he sees the Proteas as favorites.
Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: South Africa vs New Zealand – Head-to-Head Records & Key Stats
Ponting’s Take on South Africa’s Strengths
“They’ve got a strong side,” Ponting said. “When I compare both teams, I feel South Africa has just a little more class in their lineup. Kagiso Rabada is in great form, and Marco Jansen took three wickets in his last game. They bat deep, have an in-form opener in Ryan Rickelton, and a powerful middle order.”
With their balance in both batting and bowling, Ponting believes the Proteas will be tough to beat.
New Zealand’s Fighting Spirit Can’t Be Ignored
However, Ponting also acknowledged that New Zealand has a history of defying expectations in major tournaments. “They just find a way,” he said. “They deserve to be here, and they’ll be tough to beat again.”
One key factor for the Black Caps is their exceptional fielding, led by Glenn Phillips. His stunning catch to dismiss Virat Kohli against India showcased New Zealand’s ability to create game-changing moments in the field.
“When you take a catch like that against an opposition’s best player, it has a much bigger impact,” Ponting added. “That’s why fielding is so crucial.”
A High-Stakes Clash Awaits
With both teams eager to secure a spot in the final, Wednesday’s semi-final promises to be a thrilling encounter. The match will take place at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, starting at 2 PM local time. The winner will face India in the grand finale.
Will South Africa’s depth and firepower take them through, or will New Zealand’s never-say-die attitude prove Ponting wrong? Cricket fans around the world eagerly await the answer.
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