Late-cut, sweep and backfoot punch are Kane Williamson's characteristic strokes and could well come in play in the semifinal against South Africa in the Champions Trophy in Lahore on Wednesday.

South Africa will re-embark on an agonising quest for their first piece of ICC silverware since 1998 when they face New Zealand in Wednesday's semi-final of the Champions Trophy in Lahore, the scene of a high-scoring tussle between the duo last month.

South Africa will be looking to put a whirlwind couple of days behind them when they take on New Zealand in the Champions Trophy semi-final in Lahore on Wednesday. The Proteas undertook what has now become a pointless 18-hour trip to Dubai and face a strong New Zealand side for a spot in the final.

After losing to India in their final Group A match in Dubai, New Zealand are set to face South Africa in the semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy on Wednesday in Lahore. Skipper Tom Latham acknowledged the Proteas' strong form and the challenge they present.

New Zealand go into their Champions Trophy semi-final against South Africa in Lahore on Wednesday buoyed by beating the Proteas at the same venue in a tri-series last month. The Black Caps lost to India in their final Group A match on Sunday in Dubai but Tom Latham said it would have no bearing on the encounter for a place in the final.