Captain Temba Bavuma confirmed that South Africa will maintain their usual approach for Wednesday’s Champions Trophy semi-final against New Zealand, despite their past disappointments in knockout matches. The team has previously suffered setbacks in major tournaments, including losses to Australia in the 2023 ODI World Cup semi-final and to India in last year’s T20 World Cup final.
Bavuma emphasized that the team will focus on the present rather than dwell on past failures. “We will approach the semi-final as we normally would. It’s just another game for us, important as it is, but we won’t overstate its significance,” he stated.
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Acknowledging New Zealand’s strong performance, Bavuma noted that the opposition had beaten hosts Pakistan and Bangladesh before losing to India in Group A. “We want to play our best cricket tomorrow. We know New Zealand will present certain challenges, and we are preparing accordingly,” he added. While he recognized New Zealand’s 44-run loss to India in Dubai, Bavuma remained confident that their overall performance would not be affected.
Reflecting on a recent tri-series match in Lahore—where New Zealand defeated a depleted South Africa by six wickets—Bavuma said, “That game gave us a clear picture of the New Zealand side. They will play similarly, but we are a different and stronger team.”
Discussing New Zealand’s bowling prowess, Bavuma described their attack as disciplined and formidable, adding that while New Zealand’s bowlers do not offer much scoring opportunity to batters, South Africa’s own bowling unit is equally capable, setting the stage for an intense contest between the two sides.
On the fitness front, Bavuma confirmed that he and opener Tony de Zorzi have recovered from recent health issues that kept them out of the previous match against England. However, there is still some uncertainty regarding Aiden Markram’s condition due to a hamstring injury, though reserve George Linde is available to step in if needed.
The winner of the semi-final will go on to face India in the final on Sunday in Dubai, following India’s four-wicket victory over Australia on Tuesday.
