That confidence would have come from their dominance tonight, which began as early as the second over when Patel took the wicket of Brad Wilson. The Knights attempted to rebuild but it wasn't until No 6 batsman Daryl Mitchell that an individual score advanced past 20.
ND were simply strangled by an slow-pace attack that saw Patel (1-14), Woodcock (1-18) and Elliott (2-20) each complete their four overs in economical fashion. The Knights, shorn of several internationals, were guilty of being too tentative at the crease and only in the final overs, when Mitchell was joined by Scott Kuggeleijn, did the ball find the fence with any regularity.
In contrast, Wellington raced to their target in a hurry, aided by some loose bowling from much of the ND attack. Although Daniel Flynn completed a fine run-out from the seat of his pants to dismiss Michael Pollard, the early wicket did nothing to dampen Papps' enthusiasm.
The opener brought up his half century from 32 deliveries, all but deciding the game before falling late in the chase. Stephen Murdoch (35 off 33) provided solid support at the other end as the pair put on 68 for the second wicket and only Mitchell Santner managed to stem the bleeding, completing his four overs for just nine runs.
ND will now attempt to bounce back and earn a spot in the final with a win over Auckland tomorrow, an opponent they have beaten twice this season.
