Sunrisers Eastern Cape secured their spot in the SA20 final with an emphatic eight-wicket victory over Paarl Royals at Centurion. The defending champions successfully chased down a target of 176, maintaining their flawless playoff record and setting up a thrilling title clash against MI Cape Town in Johannesburg on Saturday.

After an early setback with David Bedingham’s dismissal, Tony de Zorzi and Jordan Hermann took charge, forging a crucial 111-run partnership for the second wicket. De Zorzi delivered a masterful 78 before falling to Dunith Wellalage, but Hermann remained unbeaten on 69, steering his team to victory alongside skipper Aiden Markram (11*).

Earlier, Paarl Royals, opting to bat first, posted a competitive total of 175/4, thanks to a solid 99-run stand between Lhuan-dre Pretorius and Rubin Hermann. Pretorius contributed a composed 59 off 41 balls, while Hermann powered his way to an unbeaten 81 off 53 deliveries. Andile Phehlukwayo’s late cameo of 22 off 11 balls provided a crucial boost in the final overs.

With this victory, Sunrisers Eastern Cape now set their sights on an unprecedented third consecutive SA20 title, as they prepare to take on MI Cape Town in the grand finale