KOLKATA – Finn Allen shattered the record books with a 33-ball century as New Zealand crushed South Africa by nine wickets to secure their spot in the T20 World Cup final. Chasing 170, the Black Caps reached the target in just 12.5 overs, leaving the Proteas stunned.
South Africa, previously unbeaten in the tournament, struggled early after losing the toss. Despite a late-innings rescue by Marco Jansen, who struck an unbeaten 55 off 30 balls to propel his side to 169-8, the total proved meager against a relentless Kiwi attack. New Zealand’s bowlers, led by Rachin Ravindra’s 2-29, set a clinical tone from the start.
The chase was a one-man masterclass. Finn Allen eclipsed Chris Gayle’s 2016 record for the fastest T20 World Cup ton, hitting 10 fours and eight sixes. His opening partner, Tim Seifert, provided a robust 58 off 33 balls, but it was Allen’s 42 runs off a mere 11 deliveries in the latter stages that demoralized the South African bowling unit.
South Africa’s “chokers” tag resurfaced as their top order collapsed to 77-5. Skipper Aiden Markram admitted the defeat felt like a “slap in the face.” Meanwhile, New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner praised his side’s aggression, noting that Allen is a “nightmare” for any opposition when in such form.
New Zealand now advances to Sunday’s final, where they will face India in a highly anticipated showdown.
