New Zealand, South Africa Prepare for Champions Trophy Semi-Final in Lahore

New Zealand's cricket team, led by skipper Mitchell Santner, is gearing up for their Champions Trophy semi-final against South Africa in Lahore, despite facing tough travel challenges. After winning their first two matches in Pakistan, the team lost to India in Dubai and then returned to Pakistan for the semi-final. Santner highlighted the importance of recovery after travel, acknowledging the exhausting nature of one-day cricket. The tournament's hybrid format, necessitated by India's refusal to play in Pakistan due to political tensions, has drawn criticism for potentially giving India an unfair advantage. Both New Zealand and South Africa have experience playing in the region, having participated in a tri-series earlier this year. The outcome of the semi-final will be critical as both teams aim for their first Champions Trophy title since its format change.