New Zealand Crush Zimbabwe by 60 Runs, Set Up T20I Tri-Series Final vs South Africa

New Zealand delivered a commanding 60-run victory over Zimbabwe in the sixth and final round-robin match of the T20I Tri-Series at Harare Sports Club on Thursday, completing a clean sweep of their group stage fixtures and booking a showdown with South Africa in Saturday’s final[1][4].

The Black Caps, led by captain Mitchell Santner, posted an imposing 190 for 6 after being put in to bat, thanks largely to fine half-centuries from Tim Seifert (75 off 45) and Rachin Ravindra (63 off 39), who shared a decisive 108-run second-wicket partnership[2][4]. Zimbabwe’s bowling attack found little answer to their aggression, with only Richard Ngarava (3/26) and Tinotenda Maposa (2/0) managing breakthroughs.

In reply, Zimbabwe’s chase faltered from the outset. While the hosts began briskly with 21 off the first two overs, leg-spinner Ish Sodhi—introduced early by skipper Santner—wreaked havoc, taking 4 wickets for just 12 runs in his spell[4]. Matt Henry (2 wickets) provided excellent support as Zimbabwe were bowled out for 130, their losing streak in the series stretching to four matches[2][4].

The match marks another milestone for Sodhi, who became only the third New Zealander—and third bowler worldwide—to take 150 T20I wickets[4]. Santner praised his team’s adaptability on a tricky pitch and highlighted the significance of different players stepping up at crucial moments throughout the series[1].

With New Zealand and South Africa now set to face off in the grand final on July 26, both sides will be eager to claim the inaugural T20I Tri-Series title. The hosts, Zimbabwe, end their campaign searching for answers after a string of underwhelming performances.

Cricket fans in India and worldwide can look forward to Saturday’s high-stakes finale, which promises to be a thrilling contest between two of the format’s leading sides.