In a breathtaking display of power-hitting, New Zealand stormed into the T20 World Cup 2026 final after demolishing South Africa by 9 wickets at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Finn Allen etched his name in history with the fastest century in T20 World Cup annals, remaining unbeaten on 100 off just 33 balls, featuring 10 fours and 8 sixes.
Chasing a modest 170, New Zealand’s openers Tim Seifert and Finn Allen unleashed mayhem from the outset. They stitched a fiery 117-run stand in 9.1 overs before Seifert departed for 58 off 33 balls, laced with 7 fours and 2 sixes. Undeterred, Allen took charge, racing to his milestone ton in record time. The winning boundary came off his bat as New Zealand cruised home in 12.5 overs at 173/1, with Rachin Ravindra unbeaten on 13 off 11.
Earlier, South Africa, put in to bat after losing the toss, managed 169/8. Marco Jansen’s unbeaten 55 off 30 balls, with 2 fours and 5 sixes, provided some late fireworks, partnering Tristan Stubbs (29) for a crucial 73-run sixth-wicket alliance. New Zealand’s bowlers struck back relentlessly: Matt Henry (2/34), Cole McConchie (2/9), Rachin Ravindra (2/29), Lockie Ferguson (1/29), and Jimmy Neesham (1/42) shared the spoils.
Allen’s explosive knock earned him Player of the Match honors, propelling New Zealand closer to T20 glory. Fans are already buzzing about their final showdown.