Finn Allen smashes fastest T20 World Cup century as New Zealand reach final

New Zealand advanced to the T20 World Cup final after a commanding nine-wicket victory over South Africa in Kolkata on Wednesday, led by a record-breaking performance from Finn Allen. Allen struck an unbeaten 100 off just 33 balls, setting a new benchmark for the fastest century in T20 World Cup history. The previous record stood at 47 balls, held by Chris Gayle.

Chasing a target of 170 in the first semi-final at Eden Gardens, Allen launched an aggressive assault on the South African bowlers. He concluded the match with a sequence of two fours, two sixes, and another four off successive deliveries, reaching his hundred and sealing the win with 7.1 overs to spare. Allen finished his innings with eight sixes and ten fours, showcasing a blend of power and precision.

Tim Seifert provided strong support at the top of the order, contributing 58 runs in a 117-run opening partnership with Allen that lasted just 9.1 overs. Seifert's innings included two sixes and seven fours, helping to lay the foundation for New Zealand's dominant chase.

After the match, Allen commented on the approach he and Seifert took at the crease, stating, “Obviously, we wanted to start looking straight and obviously try and put them on the back foot early. I think it’s easy for me when Timmy’s (Seifert) going like that, I can kind of just watch and play my game.”

New Zealand's emphatic win secured their place in the final, with Allen's historic century standing out as the highlight of the match. The team will now await the outcome of the second semi-final to determine their opponent in the championship match.