Finn Allen turned the T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final into a personal record-smashing spectacle, blasting South Africa out of the contest at Eden Gardens. His unbeaten 100 from 33 balls, laced with 10 fours and 8 sixes, guided New Zealand to a commanding 9-wicket win and a spot in the final.
The highlight? Allen’s 20 sixes across the tournament, a new high that dethroned Hetmyer (19), Farhan (18), Pooran (17), and others. This 33-ball century also etched history as the fastest in T20 World Cup annals, eclipsing Gayle’s long-standing 47-ball record.
Knockout match records tumbled too—Allen’s score now reigns supreme over Dilshan’s 96* in 2009. He’s the third Kiwi to reach three figures in the event, joining McCullum (123*) and Phillips (104). Each milestone amplified the electric atmosphere in Kolkata.
South Africa set 170 after losing the toss, but New Zealand’s openers dismantled the target. Seifert’s 58 off 33 provided perfect support to Allen’s blitz, wrapping up the chase in 12.5 overs. Player of the Match Allen’s performance signals New Zealand’s serious intent for the title.