March 4, Kathmandu. Opener Finn Allen smashed a sensational century to propel New Zealand into the final of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. New Zealand moved one step closer to the title after defeating South Africa by 9 wickets in the first semi-final held on Wednesday.
Chasing a target of 170 runs at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, New Zealand reached the mark in just 12.5 overs for the loss of one wicket.
The Record-Breaking Knock
New Zealand opener Allen created history by reaching his century in just 33 balls, marking the fastest century in T20 World Cup history. His explosive innings included 10 boundaries and 8 sixes. Displaying aggressive intent from the start, Allen reached his half-century in 19 balls and needed only 14 more deliveries to complete the ton.
In the 13th inning, he dominated Marco Jansen, hitting three fours and two sixes to collect 24 runs. With the scores tied, Allen struck a boundary off Jansen on the fifth ball to secure the win and bring up his third T20I century simultaneously.
Key Partnerships
Allen and Tim Seifert laid a solid foundation with a 117-run opening stand in just 9 overs. Seifert contributed a quick-fire 58 off 33 balls (7 fours, 2 sixes), while Rachin Ravindra remained unbeaten on 13. Kagiso Rabada took the lone wicket for South Africa.
Breaking the Jinx
With this victory, New Zealand avenged their group-stage loss to South Africa, where they were defeated by 7 wickets. Notably, this is the first time New Zealand has beaten South Africa in a T20 World Cup, having lost all five of their previous encounters in the tournament.
South Africa’s Struggles
Earlier, after losing the toss and being sent in to bat, South Africa posted 169/8 in their 20 overs. All-rounder Marco Jansen top-scored with an unbeaten 55 off 30 balls to guide them to a respectable total after the Proteas were reeling at 77-5. Dewald Brevis contributed 34, while Tristan Stubbs added 29, sharing a vital 73-run partnership with Jansen.
For the Black Caps, Matt Henry, Cole McConchie, and Rachin Ravindra claimed 2 wickets each, while skipper Mitchell Santner and Jimmy Neesham took one apiece.
Road to the Final
New Zealand will face the winner of the second semi-final between India and England, which takes place this Thursday. The grand final is scheduled for Sunday, March 8 (Falgun 24), at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.