By dubailife 
New Zealand Set for Champions Trophy Final Against India in Dubai
Dubai is set to witness an electrifying Champions Trophy final as New Zealand takes on tournament favorites India at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday, March 9. The Kiwis secured their place in the final after a commanding 50-run victory over South Africa in the semifinal held in Lahore on Wednesday.
India, led by star batter Virat Kohli, booked their spot in the title clash with a thrilling four-wicket win over Australia in the first semifinal, also held at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday. Kohli’s half-century played a crucial role in India’s chase.
New Zealand’s Record-Breaking Performance
New Zealand set a new Champions Trophy record total of 362-6, surpassing Australia’s previous best of 356-5, achieved against England in the group stage. The Kiwi batters dominated on a batting-friendly pitch at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, after opting to bat first.
Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson were the standout performers, each scoring centuries to lay a strong foundation. Ravindra smashed 108 off 101 balls, while Williamson struck 102 off 94 deliveries, propelling New Zealand towards a mammoth total.
In the death overs, Daryl Mitchell (49 off 37 balls) and Glenn Phillips (49 off 27 balls)* provided a late surge, adding 110 runs in the final 10 overs, including 66 in the last five.
South Africa’s Struggles with the Ball
South Africa’s bowlers found it difficult to contain New Zealand’s aggressive batting lineup. The opening duo of Ravindra and Will Young (21) set the tone with a 48-run partnership, followed by a magnificent 164-run stand between Ravindra and Williamson for the second wicket.
Ravindra completed his fifth ODI century, all coming in ICC events, reaching the milestone in 93 balls with a two off Kagiso Rabada. Williamson registered his 15th ODI hundred, marking his third consecutive three-figure score against South Africa.
Rabada finally broke the crucial partnership, dismissing Ravindra caught behind after the left-hander hit 13 fours and a six. Williamson followed soon after, mistiming a shot off Wiaan Mulder into Lungi Ngidi’s hands in the 40th over.
Despite a late fightback from South Africa’s bowlers, New Zealand’s final push ensured a challenging target of 363 runs. Ngidi finished with 3-72, while Rabada took 2-70.
Dubai Gears Up for an Exciting Final
With India and New Zealand set for a thrilling showdown at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, cricket fans in Dubai can expect an electrifying atmosphere. The final will feature some of the biggest stars in world cricket, including Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Kane Williamson, and Rachin Ravindra.
As Dubai continues to cement its reputation as a premier cricketing destination, all eyes will be on this highly anticipated clash to determine the Champions Trophy winner.
Source : Cricinfo