Champions Trophy 2025: Ravindra finds the right balance in crucial innings

Rachin Ravindra of New Zealand, who is aiming for ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 triumph on Sunday, March 9, believes that teamwork makes the goal come true.

In order to set up a tantalising Final matchup with India, New Zealand defeated South Africa by 50 runs, with the opening batsman scoring 108.

New Zealand made 362 for six from their 50 overs, with hundreds from Ravindra and Kane Williamson (102). The Black Caps then held South Africa to 312 for nine in response.

Early in Ravindra’s innings, South Africa’s opening bowlers Marco Jansen and Lungi Ngidi were able to limit him, and he claimed that his teammates’ encouragement kept him composed.

He remarked, “It is always a great feeling to contribute to the team.” “It is very satisfying and I couldn’t be happier, especially after a fairly decisive victory in a semi-final.

“I didn’t get off to the best start I could have. I was somewhat constrained by South Africa’s excellent bowling performance.

However, it was good to have a collaboration with Kane [Williamson] after first with Youngy [Will Young]. The ability to collaborate with the guys on the team was the biggest assistance to me.

“It was good to have the guys out there to help me, and I will continue to work through the ups and downs of one-day cricket because you are bound to scratch around for a little while in an innings where you face over 100 balls.”

Originally, the target score was 360, but the 25-year-old ended up scoring 108 from 101 balls, including 13 fours and one six. That only became the objective once Williamson raised the stakes, he clarified.

“We were considering the 300-run threshold,” he added. The pitch sounded a little sluggish. The way [South Africa] bowled those cutters caused them to bounce a lot because they were holding a little.

We had [300 runs] in mind, but Kane suddenly began to accelerate so well that we assumed there was more to come.

“Then GP [Glenn Phillips] and Daz [Daryl Mitchell] gave it their all, and those boys made sure we reached 360.”

With the victory, New Zealand will play India again in the 2000 Final, which they lost to in their last group match. However, Ravindra stated that it was crucial that the team enjoys the victory before getting ready to meet Rohit Sharma’s team.

When asked about the Final, Ravindra remarked, “That is the thing about tournament cricket, it is always about what is next.”

Since there were some stunning performances today, it is crucial that we all take in the moment and celebrate together.

“We’ll think back on today and relax a little tonight before turning on when we arrive in Dubai.”