Australia v New Zealand 1997-1998

At Sharjah, April 21 (day/night). Australia won by five wickets. Toss: New Zealand.

Australia rested three key players - Fleming, Kasprowicz and Ponting- but still ran out convincing winners to ensure their place in the final. In extreme heat, the bowlers suffered as the ball came on enticingly. Determined strokeplay, notably from Astle and Cairns, who lofted Warne for six only to fall to his next delivery, set New Zealand on their way, and 30 came from the last 14 balls. However, it was not enough as Moody and Bevan both hit assured fifties. With no team from the subcontinent involved, the crowd was small.

Man of the Match: T. M. Moody.