Tim Seifert hit 66* in New Zealand’s seven-wicket win against South Africa in Tuesday’s Tri-Series T20I in Harare.

The Proteas were restricted to 134-8 after being sent in, before the Black Caps cruised to victory with 25 balls to spare.

New Zealand maintained their unbeaten record in the tournament and will go into the final against the same opponents at the same venue on Saturday as strong favourites. They won their first match against the Proteas by 21 runs.

The Proteas could score only 18 runs in the first five overs despite losing only one wicket.

“The way we bowled in the power play was outstanding,” said New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner. “Our bowlers found a length and found some swing and we were able to squeeze from there.”

HIGHLIGHTS: Proteas vs New Zealand (Tri-Series T20I)

Jacob Duffy and Adam Milne took two wickets each while fellow pace bowler Zachary Foulkes only conceded 12 runs in his three overs.

The Proteas packed their team with spin bowlers but the tactic unravelled in the first over, bowled by left-arm spinner George Linde, as they attempted to defend a low total.

Linde started with two wides, one of which went to the boundary for four extra runs. Then Seifert was dropped at long-off before he had scored. The over cost 15 runs.

Seifert and fellow opener Devon Conway (19) took the total to 50 in the first five overs and the Black Caps were in control for the rest of the match.

© Agence France-Presse

Photo: Zimbabwe Cricket