Rajat Patidar hit a sublime century as Royal Challengers Bangalore beat Lucknow Super Giants by 14 runs in the Indian Premier League eliminator.
Patidar struck an unbeaten 112 from just 54 balls to help RCB post 207-4.
Super Giants captain KL Rahul made 79 off 58 in reply but the IPL newcomers could only total 193-6 as Australia fast bowler Josh Hazlewood took 3-43.
RCB face Rajasthan Royals in the second qualifier on Friday to decide who will join Gujarat Titans in Sunday's final.
India star Virat Kohli roared with delight after RCB secured victory, having lost the eliminator in the last two campaigns.
Kohli, who stepped down as RCB captain last year to be replaced by Faf du Plessis, is still seeking a maiden IPL title with the franchise he has represented since the inaugural tournament in 2008.
Lucknow, one of the two new franchises this season with Gujarat, are eliminated from the competition.
Source: BBC