New Zealand confident ahead of Champions Trophy semi-final against South Africa | Cricket News
New Zealand enter their Champions Trophy semi-final against South Africa in Lahore with confidence after defeating them at the same venue during last month’s tri-series.
The Black Caps’ recent loss to India in their final Group A match in Dubai will not impact their upcoming semi-final performance, according to Tom Latham.
New Zealand’s previous success in Lahore includes chasing down 305 against South Africa, with Kane Williamson scoring 133, and defeating host nation Pakistan in the tri-series.
“We’re fortunate that we had a tri-series in Pakistan and against South Africa,” said the wicketkeeper Latham.
“We’ve got a chance to look back on those experiences and give our best in a semi-final, which is pretty cool.”
New Zealand had already secured their semi-final spot before Sunday’s loss to India in Dubai. They were also aware of their return to Pakistan for the semi-final match.
“It is something that’s out of our control,” Latham said of the travelling, with India playing all their games in Dubai after refusing to go to hosts Pakistan.
“We don’t decide the schedule and for us it’s about turning up at each game regardless of where it is and trying to play our best brand of cricket as best we can.”
“Obviously it’s a chance at making an ICC final,” said Latham.
“We know there’s a lot of hard work to do to get to that point.”
South Africa dominated Group B, finishing ahead of Australia with two convincing victories and one match cancelled due to weather.
“We know how strong South Africa are,” said Latham.
“They’ve got all bases covered in terms of batting, bowling and in the field. As you look at it, I’m sure it’ll be a fantastic game.”
New Zealand’s fielding has been exceptional throughout their journey to the semi-finals, highlighted by Glenn Phillips‘ remarkable one-handed catch at backward point to dismiss Virat Kohli on Sunday.
“I think we’ve seen throughout the tournament some of the catches that the guys have been taking,” said Latham. “For us it’s an attitude thing.”
The first semi-final between India and Australia will take place in Dubai on Tuesday.
