New Zealand stormed into the men’s T20 World Cup final with a commanding nine-wicket victory over South Africa, powered by a sensational century from Finn Allen at Eden Gardens. Chasing 170, the Black Caps completed the target with more than seven overs to spare in one of the most dominant knockout performances in tournament history.
South Africa posted 169 for 8 after being put under early pressure by the New Zealand bowlers. Off-spinning allrounder Cole McConchie struck twice in a single over to remove Quinton de Kock and Ryan Rickelton, leaving South Africa reeling early. Captain Mitchell Santner and Rachin Ravindra then tightened the grip through the middle overs, with Ravindra claiming two key wickets.
Despite the setbacks, South Africa fought back through a superb innings from Marco Jansen, who smashed an unbeaten 55 from just 30 balls. Jansen shared a crucial 73-run partnership with Tristan Stubbs to give their side a competitive total. Late wickets from Matt Henry ensured the Proteas were restricted to under 170.
However, the chase quickly turned into a one-sided contest. Allen unleashed a breathtaking assault on the South African bowlers, reaching his fifty in just 19 balls before racing to a century in only 33 deliveries — the fastest hundred ever scored in a men’s T20 World Cup, surpassing the previous record held by Chris Gayle.
Opening partner Tim Seifert also played a vital role, scoring a fluent 58 as the pair dominated the powerplay and effectively sealed the match within the first few overs. South Africa’s only breakthrough came through Kagiso Rabada, who dismissed Seifert, but the result was never in doubt.
Allen remained unbeaten on 100 as New Zealand completed the chase with ease, securing their place in the final and keeping their hopes of a maiden men’s T20 World Cup title alive.