Finn Allen Fastest T20 World Cup Century Sends New Zealand to Final

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Finn Allen smashed the fastest century in Men’s T20 World Cup history.
New Zealand defeated South Africa by nine wickets in the semifinal.
The Black Caps chased 170 in just 12.5 overs at Eden Gardens.

Kolkata: The Finn Allen fastest T20 World Cup century turned the first semifinal of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 into a one sided contest as New Zealand national cricket team stormed into the final with a commanding nine wicket win over South Africa national cricket team at Eden Gardens.

Allen blasted an unbeaten 100 off just 33 balls, helping New Zealand chase down 170 in only 12.5 overs in front of more than 39,000 spectators.

The victory sends the Black Caps into the final where they will face the winner of the second semifinal between India national cricket team and England national cricket team.

Finn Allen Fastest T20 World Cup Century Shatters South Africa

Allen produced a breathtaking innings that included ten fours and eight sixes, reaching the fastest century in the history of the Men’s T20 World Cup.

Chasing 170, New Zealand exploded out of the blocks with 84 runs in the powerplay without losing a wicket. The aggressive start immediately put South Africa under pressure.

Allen dominated the sixth over by smashing Corbin Bosch for a six and four boundaries, collecting 22 runs in a single over.

At the other end, Tim Seifert played the perfect supporting role. He scored 58 from 33 balls, bringing up his half century in 28 deliveries before being dismissed by Kagiso Rabada.

By the time Seifert fell, the match had already slipped beyond South Africa’s control.

Marco Jansen’s Fifty Lifts South Africa to 169

Earlier, South Africa managed to post 169 for eight thanks to a powerful late surge from Marco Jansen.

Jansen smashed an unbeaten 55 from 30 balls, hitting two fours and five sixes at a strike rate above 180. His aggressive batting helped South Africa recover after early setbacks.

Also Read | South Africa vs New Zealand T20 World Cup 2026 Semifinal Set for Eden Gardens Showdown

New Zealand’s decision to introduce off spinner Cole McConchie early paid off as he dismissed Quinton de Kock and Ryan Rickelton to leave the Proteas struggling at 12 for two.

A recovery partnership between Aiden Markram and Dewald Brevis added 43 runs before New Zealand regained control.

What the Result Means for the World Cup Final

The data suggests New Zealand’s aggressive approach with the bat has reshaped their T20 strategy this tournament. Instead of pacing the chase, the Black Caps are attacking early and dismantling opposition bowling attacks.

What the market is missing is how this fearless batting style could make New Zealand one of the most dangerous teams in knockout cricket.

With Allen in explosive form and the bowling unit delivering early breakthroughs, the Black Caps now head into the final with momentum firmly on their side.

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