The two-time champions, Sunrisers Eastern Cape, won the toss at Kingsmead and elected to bat first on what proved to be a good wicket.

The side from Gqeberha posted a competitive 170/7 from their allotted 20 overs, with England international wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow leading the way with a fluent 50 off 36 balls, striking six fours and a six. Jordan Hermann provided valuable support with 41 off 30 deliveries, including three fours and a six, while captain Tristan Stubbs chipped in with 26 off 22.

Bryce Parsons - Cricinfo

The Sunrisers looked well set for a bigger total, but a superb bowling display from former SA Under-19 captain Bryce Parsons applied the brakes. Parsons delivered an outstanding spell, finishing with remarkable figures of 3/10 in three overs, while skipper Keshav Maharaj offered excellent control, claiming 2/24 in four overs.

The Capitals’ chase got off to a slightly shaky start with Shai Hope dismissed for 11, leaving the score at 15/1 after two overs. Connor Esterhuizen steadied the innings with a useful 22 off 19 balls before being bowled by Chris Green at 61/2 after 7.5 overs.

From there, the match was firmly wrestled away from the Sunrisers. A brilliant 91-run third-wicket partnership between Bryce Parsons and Dewald Brevis set up the victory in emphatic fashion. Parsons continued his outstanding all-round performance with a well-compiled 60 off 44 balls, while Brevis lit up Kingsmead with a blistering 75 not out off 38 deliveries, smashing four fours and seven towering sixes.

The Sunrisers’ bowlers struggled to stem the flow of runs, with Lewis Gregory, Anrich Nortjé and Chris Green each managing to claim a single wicket.

Speaking after the historic win, Brevis said it was a special moment to be in the middle and help guide the Capitals into their maiden final.

“It was very special to be out there for the boys and to finish it off with Sherfane Rutherford,” said Brevis.

“Bryce also played such a key role, both with the ball and with the bat.

“It’s really nice knowing that we’re going straight into the final. We’ve got some time to recover and prepare, and I’m very proud of the boys – it was a proper team effort.

Jonny Bairstow - Cricinfo

“Everyone fought out there, and it was just so enjoyable walking off the field together.”

Brevis added that the steady growth of the team throughout the competition has boosted their confidence in the unpredictable T20 format.

“I think everyone is getting better – the bowlers are improving and the batters are improving as well.

“It was a really nice wicket, but in T20 cricket you never know how a game will work out because there are so many momentum shifts.

“This is a very strong competition played at a high level, and that’s what makes it so tough. It all leads to moments like this, but it’s difficult to point to just one thing.”

The Capitals now advance directly to Sunday’s final at Newlands in Cape Town, while the Sunrisers will get another opportunity on Friday in Qualifier 2. Their opponents at the Wanderers will be confirmed on Thursday night.

On Thursday, the Paarl Royals and Joburg Super Kings will clash in the Eliminator at SuperSport Park in Centurion. The winner will progress to Qualifier 2, while the loser will bow out of the competition. Play gets underway at 17:30.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport