Rachin Ravindra vs. Kane Williamson: Who Stole the Show in the Champions Trophy Semifinal?

Rachin Ravindra vs. Kane Williamson in CT 2025 Semifinal: New Zealand delivered a commanding performance to defeat South Africa in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 second semifinal on March 5, 2025, at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. The victory was built on stellar centuries from young star Rachin Ravindra and seasoned captain Kane Williamson. Their crucial partnership propelled New Zealand to a formidable 362/6, a total South Africa couldn’t chase, finishing at 259/9. This analysis explores the standout performances of Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson—who had the greater impact in shaping this decisive win?

How the Centuries Unfolded: The Match-Defining Partnership

New Zealand faced early pressure when Will Young departed, leaving them at 38/1 in the eighth over. Rachin Ravindra then joined Kane Williamson at the crease, and the pair constructed a magnificent 164-run partnership for the second wicket. Spanning 26.3 overs (159 balls), they batted with authority against South Africa’s attack. Ravindra scored a dynamic 108 off 101 balls, while Williamson anchored the innings with a masterful 102 off 94 balls. Their stand dismantled the opposition’s plans, setting a solid platform (202/2 when Ravindra fell) that allowed Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips to add explosive runs late in the innings, pushing the total to a daunting 362/6.

Key Stats: Rachin Ravindra vs. Kane Williamson Performance

Here’s a direct comparison of their batting contributions in the semifinal:

Milestones Achieved in the Semifinal

• Rachin Ravindra:
• Scored his 2nd century of the Champions Trophy 2025.
• Registered his 5th century in ICC ODI tournaments.
• Became the youngest New Zealander to score a century in Champions Trophy history.
• Kane Williamson:
• Crossed 19,000 runs in international cricket across all formats.
• Scored his 15th ODI century.
• Notched his 4th ODI century against South Africa (3rd consecutive).
• Became New Zealand’s leading run-scorer in Champions Trophy history.
• Partnership:
• Their 164-run stand is New Zealand’s highest partnership for any wicket in Champions Trophy history.

Ravindra’s Flair vs. Williamson’s Control

While both were highly effective, their innings had distinct characteristics. Rachin Ravindra displayed attacking intent early on, hitting 13 boundaries and finding gaps frequently, particularly through the off-side. His lofted six off Keshav Maharaj showcased his confidence. Despite facing 46 dot balls, his strike rate remained impressive (106.93), reflecting his aggressive approach and ability to put pressure back on the bowlers.

Kane Williamson, conversely, demonstrated his trademark precision and control. He started more cautiously, finding his rhythm before accelerating. His innings was built on expert strike rotation (only 38 dot balls) and placing the ball into gaps. After reaching fifty, he increased his tempo, playing elegant drives and hitting two crucial sixes. His knock (SR 108.51) perfectly anchored the innings, allowing others to play freely around him.

Ravindra provided the impetus, while Williamson ensured stability and control. Their complementary styles proved devastating for South Africa.

South Africa’s Bowling Struggles

South Africa’s highly-rated pace attack and spinners couldn’t contain the Kiwi pair. Here’s how their bowlers fared:

Leaking runs consistently, particularly Jansen going wicketless for 79 runs, allowed New Zealand to build immense pressure, culminating in a match-winning total.

Impact on the Match and Tournament

The Ravindra-Williamson partnership didn’t just accumulate runs; it broke South Africa’s resolve. Setting a target of 363 proved insurmountable. South Africa’s chase faltered under scoreboard pressure, eventually restricted to 259/9, with Mitchell Santner (3/43) leading the Kiwi bowlers. This victory secures New Zealand’s place in the Champions Trophy 2025 final against India, scheduled for March 9 in Dubai. The semifinal win highlighted New Zealand’s batting depth and the potent combination of Ravindra’s youthful aggression and Williamson’s experienced calm.

Conclusion: A Tale of Two Centuries

Both Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson played defining roles in New Zealand’s Champions Trophy semifinal triumph. Ravindra’s explosive 108 provided momentum, while Williamson’s composed 102 offered stability and control. Their record-breaking 164-run partnership was the cornerstone of the victory, crushing South Africa’s hopes and paving the way to the final. While Ravindra represents the exciting future of New Zealand cricket, Williamson continues to prove his class on the biggest stages. In this crucial match, their combined efforts were simply unstoppable.

FAQs: Rachin Ravindra vs. Kane Williamson (CT Semifinal)