Cricket: Canterbury hoping for Super Smash double delight, on the verge of becoming New Zealand's Twenty20 powerhouse

Both Canterbury's men's and women's cricket teams are contesting their respective Super Smash finals in Christchurch on Saturday - a day they're hoping to end with two trophies.

Don't be fooled by their name, Canterbury are no Kings when it comes to the domestic 20-over scene.

It's a crown they've never won, an unwanted fact coach Peter Fulton is determined to change against Northern Brave.

Canterbury's Todd Astle is congratulated.
Canterbury's Todd Astle is congratulated. Photo credit: Photosport

"T20 cricket is pretty unpredictable," he told Newshub. "There are no guarantees especially when you get to a final, 

"So obviously we hope to play well and see what happens."

The Kings hope it's third time lucky, after falling at the final hurdle two years running. 

Captain Cole McConchie is planning to turn that pain into a positive.

"We haven't come away with the spoils which has been pretty tough," he said. "But it just adds to the motivation."

The difference this time around, the age of the side.

"This year's team is probably a little bit younger," added Fulton. 

"That youth, that almost care-free attitude, might help us on Saturday night."

It's a similar story for Canterbury's women's side. 

The Magicians, who won Thursday's  Elimination Final to book a place in the decider, are facing the seven-time champions the Wellington Blaze.

However, the Blaze's final defeat in 2021 - their only previous loss in their last 20 games before being stunned by Auckland Hearts last week - came at the hands of Canterbury.

But even missing their White Ferns stars, the Magicians are backing their young guns to come up trumps on the big stage.

"We had two under-19 representatives play yesterday (Thursday)," said coach Rhys Morgan. 

"They'll grow from that, they have no fear."

Both sides hope a fearless approach will see them rewarded with silverware come Saturday.