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Santner Confident as New Zealand Prepares for Champions Trophy Semifinal Against South Africa

Posted : 04 March 2025

New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner acknowledged the team's challenging travel schedule but emphasized their readiness for the Champions Trophy semifinal against South Africa in Lahore. The Kiwis began the tournament with two dominant victories in Pakistan before traveling to Dubai, where they lost to India.

 

After securing their semifinal spot, they returned to Pakistan for the crucial match at Gaddafi Stadium. Despite the demanding itinerary, Santner stressed that the team had recovered and was prepared for the challenge ahead.

 

The tournament's hybrid format, which allowed India to play all its matches in Dubai due to political tensions with Pakistan, has sparked criticism for giving them an advantage. While teams like New Zealand, Pakistan, and Bangladesh had to travel to Dubai to face India, the Men in Blue remained in one location.

 

South Africa also made the trip to Dubai but returned to Pakistan without playing a game, further highlighting the scheduling concerns. Santner acknowledged the strain of international cricket’s hectic scheduling and underlined the importance of rest and recovery.

 

Despite a 44-run defeat to India in their last group-stage match, New Zealand had already secured their semifinal place. Santner emphasized the need to manage the players' physical condition, particularly the bowlers, to maintain peak performance.

 

 He expressed confidence in his squad’s ability to reset and refocus for the clash against a formidable South African team. The Proteas, who dominated England and Afghanistan in the group stage, will pose a tough challenge with their well-balanced lineup.

 

Santner praised South Africa’s depth in both pace and spin bowling, noting that Lahore's conditions may not favor spinners as much as Dubai. He highlighted the strength of their attack, which includes Keshav Maharaj, Tabraiz Shamsi, and Aiden Markram, along with four quality seamers.

 

While acknowledging the Proteas’ balanced squad, Santner remained optimistic about New Zealand’s chances, stating that the team was well-prepared for the high-stakes encounter.

 

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