New Zealand beat South Africa to reach World Cup final

AUCKLAND: Johannesburg-born Grant Elliott hit a six off the penultimate ball to take New Zealand into their first World Cup final when they defeated the Proteas by four wickets in a rain-hit semi-final thriller at Eden Park on Tuesday.

Elliott smashed Dale Steyn into the stands as the South African native hit an undefeated 84 to earn a place in Sunday´s title match in Melbourne where New Zealand will face either Australia or defending champions India.

Brendon McCullum made a 26-ball 59 and Corey Anderson (58) to also help the Black Caps to their rain-adjusted target of 298 after South Africa had made 281 for five batting first in a match reduced to 43 overs a side.

For South Africa, Faf de Plessis made 82, AB de Villiers was not out 65, while David Miller smashed an 18-ball 49.