David Miller criticized the ICC’s scheduling after South Africa’s defeat to New Zealand in the Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final. The team’s travel from Pakistan to Dubai and back was deemed “not ideal” for performance. Miller’s century was not enough to overcome New Zealand’s record total, and he expressed support for New Zealand in the final against India.
David Miller, South Africa’s standout player in the Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final against New Zealand, expressed his dissatisfaction with the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) scheduling after his team faced a 50-run defeat. The scheduling inconsistency required both Australia and South Africa to travel to Dubai following the group stage to prepare for a potential semi-final against India. However, after India’s victory over New Zealand, South Africa had to return to Pakistan for their semi-final match.
Miller commented on the inconvenience of the travel, stating, “It’s only an hour and 40 minute flight, but the fact that we had to do that was not ideal.” Following their departure from Karachi to Dubai, the team quickly had to return to Lahore soon after landing. “It’s early morning, it’s after a game and we had to fly. Then we got to Dubai at 4:00 pm. And at 7.30 am we had to come back. It doesn’t make it nice,” he lamented.
Despite Miller’s impressive century of 67 balls, featuring 10 fours and four sixes, South Africa fell short in their chase against New Zealand, which set a record total of 363 runs in the tournament. New Zealand’s bowlers, particularly Mitchell Santner who took three wickets, played a crucial role in their success.
Miller observed the difficulties of the pitch as the game progressed: “It’s not easy chasing 360 even if it’s a good wicket. I think the wicket just deteriorated as the game went on and they spun the ball a lot more than us.” New Zealand’s early inning centuries from Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson helped establish a formidable target.
Finally, Miller showed support for New Zealand, declaring, “I’ll be honest with you, I think I’ll be supporting New Zealand” in the final against India.
In summary, David Miller voiced strong concerns regarding the Champions Trophy scheduling, highlighting the impact of extensive travel on player performance. Despite his commendable individual performance, South Africa’s exit from the tournament raises questions about logistical planning within international cricket. Miller’s insights underscore the need for better scheduling practices in major tournaments to ensure fair competition. Furthermore, his support for New Zealand in the final reflects sportsmanship amidst disappointment.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
