In the first match, Pakistan batted first against the kiwis and got out to a brilliant start. A score of 275 to 300 was expected but the Paki middle order failed miserably and despite another master full century by Saeed Anwar they could only manage 252 in their 50 overs. This was an achievable target and Pakistan got of to a best of starts in the bowling capturing two early wickets cheaply. This brought together Roger Twose and Nathan Astle who rectified the situation and put pressure on the Pakistan attack, their brilliant batting was helped by poor bowling, sloppy fielding, and some bad umpiring decisions. Saeed Anwars dubious caught behind at a crucial stage denied Pakistan extra runs and the turning down of some LBW appeals also played a point in NZ`s victory.
India started the second semi final against the South Africans as underdogs with an outside chance of winning. The Indians won the toss and decided to bat first, and fortunately for them they got of to a brilliant start. And eventually got a huge target of 295 for 6. Saurav Ganguly who once again scored a well-played century made the main contribution and Yuvrag Singh again gave a spectacular performance through bat. The Indians also had their share of luck with several misfields. South Africans got off to the worst of starts and lost the opener in the second over that is Andrew Hall and then went on to increase their miseries by losing Kirsten in a terrible mix-up which resulted in run out. Than it did not take the Indians long to get the important wicket of Kalis. They eventually lost by 100 runs and Indians booked their place in the finals.
The Indians batted well in the finals and got of to a dream start with a century stand between the openers. But in the end, the Kiwis pulled things back and despite another crafty century by the left handed captain the Indians could only manage 265 on such a good batting track. Kiwis lost two early wickets but than again Nathan Astle and Roger Twose steadied the ship. And after these two Chris Cairns came in with Harris to take the Kiwis to win. Chris Cairns stayed unbeaten with a century. Thus New Zealand won its first-ever international tournament after coming close in '92 and '99.
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