David Miller criticizes ICC scheduling after SA's Champions Trophy exit
What's the story
Star South Africa batter David Miller has voiced his displeasure at the International Cricket Council (ICC) for the scheduling of the 2025 Champions Trophy.
This comes after his team lost to New Zealand in the semi-finals on Wednesday.
The eight-team tournament's schedule saw both Australia and South Africa travel to Dubai from Pakistan following their group stage matches, ahead of a potential semi-final against India.
Unforeseen journey
Unexpected travel for Champions Trophy semi-final
When India beat NZ in their final group match, it paved way for a semi-final clash with Australia.
Both SA and Australia earlier flew to Pakistan for a potential first semi-final. Regardless of the standings, India were scheduled to play in Dubai.
This meant SA had to return to Pakistan for the second semi-final against New Zealand.
Although the flight took only an hour and 40 minutes, Miller said "the fact that we had to do that was not ideal."
Match highlights
Miller's performance overshadowed
Despite Miller's brilliance, scoring an unbeaten 67-ball century (10 fours, four sixes), South Africa fell short by 50 runs in their chase of a record Champions Trophy total of 363 runs.
New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner took three wickets, with the Kiwi spinners sharing seven out of nine wickets in the match.
Miller admitted "the wicket just deteriorated as the game went on," hinting it led to their defeat.
Final prediction
Miller backs New Zealand to win final against India
Miller also backed the Black Caps for the final against India. He said, "I'll be honest with you, I think I'll be supporting New Zealand."
The Proteas batter's annoyance was visible after SA had to undergo travel complexities.
Despite the scheduling issues, Miller admitted that New Zealand were the better side and deserved winners in their semi-final clash.