New Zealand have long carried the tag of the "dark horse" in ICC tournaments, and the 2025 Champions Trophy is no exception. But this time, the Kiwis are determined to shed that label and stake their claim as true favorites. After coming agonizingly close in recent tournaments, they’ll be looking to finally go all the way – and with Rachin Ravindra in red-hot form, few would dare to bet against them.
Rachin Ravindra has been nothing short of sensational in this tournament, proving to be a game-changer for New Zealand. The 25-year-old had already made headlines with a superb century against Bangladesh in the group stage, stepping up when the Kiwis needed him most. With early wickets tumbling – Will Young, Kane Williamson, and Devon Conway all falling cheaply – it was Ravindra who anchored the chase, guiding his side to a five-wicket victory with a brilliant 112-run knock.
- Hundred vs Bangladesh.
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Naturally, expectations were sky-high for him in New Zealand’s clash against tournament favorites India. However, cricket can be unpredictable, and Ravindra fell short on this occasion, managing just six runs off 12 balls. But if there were any doubts about his ability to rise to the occasion, Ravindra put them to rest in the semifinal against a red-hot South Africa. And boy, did he deliver. From the moment he stepped in, he took the attack to the Proteas' bowling lineup, immediately putting them on the back foot. Even after Will Young was sent packing by Lungi Ngidi, Ravindra kept his foot on the gas, with the ever-reliable Kane Williamson providing steady support at the other end. His second century of the tournament came in just 93 balls.
Though Kagiso Rabada eventually dismissed him for 108, the damage was well and truly done. With 13 fours and a towering six, Ravindra had set the perfect platform for New Zealand to push for a spot in the final.
Also Read: Kane Williamson Creates History – First New Zealand Player to Score 19,000 International Runs
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