Dominant New Zealand thrash Zimbabwe to set up tri-series final against Proteas

Opting to bat first, New Zealand posted 190 for 5, powered by a 108-run second-wicket stand between Tim Seifert (75 off 43) and Rachin Ravindra (53 off 38). Michael Bracewell added late acceleration with 26 off 16, capitalising on a lacklustre Zimbabwean fielding effort that included three dropped catches and eight extras.

In reply, Zimbabwe were never in the chase. Reduced to 44 for 5 within eight overs, they eventually folded for 130 in 19. Leg-spinner Ish Sodhi was the chief destroyer with 4 for 12 - his best T20I figures - reaching 150 wickets in the format and moving to third on the all-time list.

Tony Munyonga (28) and Tashinga Musekiwa (26) offered a rare bright spot with a 51-run sixth-wicket stand, but the game was already out of reach. Zimbabwe's top order once again faltered, with only three batters reaching double figures.

Richard Ngarava continued his strong series with 3 for 35, using changes of pace effectively. However, his efforts were undermined by a lack of support in the field and wayward bowling at the other end.

Zimbabwe's campaign ends without a win, leaving them with key issues to address ahead of September's Africa Region T20 World Cup Qualifiers. Poor catching, inconsistent top-order contributions, and a reliance on isolated performances have defined their series.

For New Zealand, the result caps a dominant group stage. With Seifert in form, Ravindra consistent, and their bowling unit firing, they will head into the final against South Africa with confidence and momentum.

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