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ODI World Cup: Veteran batter Kane Williamson believes New Zealand’s six-wicket victory over South Africa in the Tri-Nation Series at the Gaddafi Stadium helps his side prepare for the 2025 Champions Trophy which will begin on February 19.

Williamson returned to top form with his 14th ODI ton in his side’s chase of a daunting target of 305. It was also Williamson’s first century in over five, years having last reached the milestone in the 2019 ODI World Cup against West Indies. The 34-year-old raced to the finish line at a strike rate of 117.69 with thirteen boundaries and two sixes making up a majority of his run tally.

“The conditions were brilliant. Today was a good effort. South Africa did great to get to 300 after a difficult start, we had to work hard to chase this down. We just gotta keep going to different venues so we need different things. Today was the early start which needed different preparation. It will all help us prepare for the Champions Trophy," said Williamson, who was named Player of the Match, in the post-match presentation.