New Zealand’s path to the T20 World Cup 2026 final was paved with fireworks as Finn Allen smashed the fastest century in the competition’s history, leading a 9-wicket demolition of South Africa at Kolkata’s iconic Eden Gardens.
Opting to field, New Zealand restricted South Africa to 169/8. Jansen’s gritty 55* (30 balls, 2×4, 5×6) and a 73-run partnership with Stubbs (29) offered resistance, but bowlers like Henry (2/34), McConchie (2/9 in 1 over), and Ravindra (2/29) ensured control.
The chase was a spectacle. Seifert and Allen’s 117-run opening stand in 9.1 overs set the tone, with Seifert falling for 58 (33 balls). Allen then erupted, reaching 100* in 33 balls with ruthless precision – 10 fours and 8 sixes. New Zealand wrapped up 173/1 in 12.5 overs, Ravindra 13* at the other end.
This emphatic win highlights New Zealand’s evolution in T20 cricket. With Allen adjudged Player of the Match, the Black Caps are primed for the ultimate challenge in the final.