South Africa lost Wednesday’s Champions Trophy semi-final to New Zealand by 50 runs in Lahore despite a century from batsman David Miller.
New Zealand reached 362 for six after winning the toss. Batsmen Kane Williamson and Rachin Ravindra hit centuries. The Proteas replied with 312 for nine.
Miller struck 100 not out from 67 deliveries. This was his seventh ODI century – and first against New Zealand. Captain Temba Bavuma and batsman Rassie van der Dussen collected half-tons.
“There were really good contributions, a couple of half-tons up front. We had a really good foundation. Unfortunately, in the middle, we lost a couple of wickets too many,” said Miller.
“At the end of the day, it’s a team effort. Everyone’s trying out there to do their best. But life is not fair sometimes. Anyone has to work really hard to achieve trophies.
“It’s not easy chasing 363 even if it’s a good wicket. There was no dew, so I think the wicket just deteriorated as the game went on. They spun the ball a lot more than us. It’s just they got a little bit more purchase out of the wicket.”
New Zealand will play India in Sunday’s Champions Trophy final in Dubai. India beat Australia in the first semi-final.
“I’ll be honest with you. I think I’ll be supporting New Zealand,” added Miller.
“They’re both incredibly good teams. India have shown the world how really good they are. They’ve been playing some good cricket for a number of years now and they’ve got some seriously good players. It’s going to be a great game.”
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