Daijiworld Media Network - Harare

Harare, Jul 20: South Africa secured their spot in the final of the ongoing T20I Tri-Series with a commanding seven-wicket victory over hosts Zimbabwe at the Harare Sports Club on Sunday. The win not only marked Zimbabwe’s third straight defeat but also ensured that the Proteas will meet New Zealand in the summit clash on July 26.

Chasing a target of 145, South Africa made light work of the Zimbabwean bowling attack, reaching 145 for 3 in just 17.2 overs. The chase was anchored by Rubin Hermann’s fluent 63 off 39 balls and a composed unbeaten 52 from Rassie van der Dussen, as the duo stitched together a match-defining partnership that left Zimbabwe struggling for answers.

Earlier, Zimbabwe won the toss and chose to bat, aiming to post a competitive total. The hosts made a cautious start, but early breakthroughs by Corbin Bosch derailed their plans. Wessly Madhevere and Clive Madande fell cheaply, while skipper Sikandar Raza once again disappointed, falling for just 9.

The innings found some momentum through Brian Bennett’s aggressive knock of 61 off 40 balls, which included four sixes and three boundaries. Bennett partnered with Ryan Burl (36 not out) for a crucial 78-run stand that offered hope. However, a late collapse saw Zimbabwe falter, with the lower order unable to accelerate. Bosch emerged as the pick of the bowlers with figures of 2/16 in four overs, keeping the Zimbabwean batters in check.

In response, Zimbabwe struck early with Tinotenda Maposa removing both Lhuan-dre Pretorius (4) and Reeza Hendricks (6), briefly lifting the hosts’ hopes. A missed run-out chance of Hermann by Raza proved costly as the batter went on to punish the bowlers with clean striking. Hermann’s 29-ball fifty turned the tide, and even though he was bowled by Richard Ngarava in the 16th over, South Africa were already in full control.

Van der Dussen, calm and calculated, guided the chase alongside Dewald Brevis, who chipped in with a confident 40-ball half-century to seal the result with 16 balls to spare.

With this clinical performance, South Africa have not only sent a strong message ahead of the final but also exposed Zimbabwe's lack of finishing power despite flashes of promise.

Brief Scores:

Zimbabwe – 144/6 in 20 overs (Brian Bennett 61, Ryan Burl 36*; Corbin Bosch 2-16)

South Africa – 145/3 in 17.2 overs (Rubin Hermann 63, Rassie van der Dussen 52*; Tinotenda Maposa 2-38)

Result: South Africa won by 7 wickets.