The Sunrisers Eastern Cape have sensationally stormed into the Betway SA20 final after securing a commanding seven-wicket victory over the Paarl Royals in qualifier two at the Wanderers on Friday. Chasing a modest target of just 115 runs, the Sunrisers displayed exceptional batting prowess to cruise to the required total in only 11.3 overs, with seven wickets still in hand.

The Royals' decision to bat first proved to be a critical misjudgment on a used pitch that offered significant turn and bounce, making scoring difficult. The Sunrisers' bowlers exploited these conditions masterfully, stifling the Paarl Royals' innings from the outset. Senuran Muthusamy was the standout performer with the ball, claiming three crucial wickets for just 15 runs. James Coles also played a vital role, taking one wicket for an economical 15 runs, as they collectively restricted Paarl to a total of 114-7. Kyle Verreynne offered the only substantial resistance for the Royals, remaining unbeaten on 52 runs from 45 balls; however, he received little support from his teammates, with no other batter managing to cross the 19-run mark.

The Sunrisers' chase began with an aggressive intent. Quinton de Kock provided an electrifying start, smashing 25 runs off just 12 deliveries, which included two sixes, before falling to Bjorn Fortuin. Fortuin also managed to dismiss Jonny Bairstow, causing a brief moment of concern for the Sunrisers. Jordan Hermann then contributed a valuable 50 runs. However, it was James Coles who took charge and ensured a swift conclusion to the match. Coles delivered an explosive, unbeaten knock of 45 runs from merely 19 balls, laced with four fours and three sixes. His powerful hitting, supported by Tristan Stubbs, emphatically sealed the victory for the Sunrisers Eastern Cape.

With this impressive win, the two-time champions, Sunrisers Eastern Cape, have now set up a highly anticipated clash against the Pretoria Capitals in the Betway SA20 final. The grand finale is scheduled to take place at Newlands on Sunday, with all the action kicking off live on SuperSport at 15:30.