The Finn Allen fastest T20 World Cup century propelled New Zealand into the tournament final after a nine-wicket demolition of South Africa at Eden Gardens on Wednesday.
Allen smashed an unbeaten 100 off 33 balls and combined with Tim Seifert for a blistering 117-run opening stand. New Zealand chased 170 with ease, reaching the target in just 12.5 overs.
South Africa had arrived unbeaten, but New Zealand’s aggressive start with the bat and early breakthroughs with the ball flipped the semi-final on its head.
South Africa recovered from 77-5 to post 169-8, led by Marco Jansen’s belligerent 55 not out.
New Zealand’s bowlers struck early after captain Mitchell Santner introduced off-spinner Cole McConchie in the second over. Quinton de Kock fell for 10, and Ryan Rickelton was dismissed on the next delivery.
Aiden Markram survived an early chance, but New Zealand stayed on top as wickets continued to fall. Dewald Brevis hit 34, yet South Africa remained under pressure at 77-5 in the 11th over.
Jansen then rebuilt with Tristan Stubbs (29) in a rapid 73-run stand that gave South Africa a competitive total. Still, New Zealand’s reply was ruthless.
BIG MOMENT!
A superb catch from Daryl Mitchell in the deep draws curtains for Aiden Markram ☝️#T20WorldCup broadcast details ➡️ https://t.co/NPykWM7qqY pic.twitter.com/2ww42zDeVf
— ICC (@ICC) March 4, 2026Allen and Seifert tore into the attack from the outset, piling up 84 runs in the power play. Allen’s clean hitting included eight sixes, and he reached his century at record pace. Seifert’s 58 provided the perfect support until he was dismissed in the 10th over.
By then, the chase was effectively done. Rachin Ravindra joined Allen as New Zealand completed the run chase in dominant style.
Speaking after the match, Allen said the plan was to put South Africa on the back foot early, adding that Seifert’s scoring rate made his job easier at the other end.
The second semi-final will be played in Mumbai on Thursday, where defending champions India face two-time champions England. New Zealand will meet the winner in the final.
 helped New Zealand crush South Africa by nine wickets and reach the final at Eden Gardens.){kind=link}