By Sachit Subba • Cricket • Mar 04, 2026 18:23 PM • 16 views
KOLKATA – New Zealand clinically dismantled South Africa by nine wickets at Eden Gardens, securing their place in the ICC T20 World Cup final.
Carrying momentum from a strong start, Finn Allen seized the night and broke both the game and the record books. He scored a century in 33 balls, setting the World Cup record for the fastest hundred.
The First Innings: Proteas Stumble
Winning the toss, the Black Caps chose to field and quickly validated the decision. South Africa struggled against Rachin Ravindra and Cole McConchie, who each took two wickets and stifled early scoring.
Despite Marco Jansen’s unbeaten 55 offering late resistance, South Africa could only reach 169/8. On Eden Gardens’ pitch, a total below 170 felt vulnerable against New Zealand’s deep batting lineup, especially given the clinical performance earlier in the innings.
Allen launched the chase aggressively in the Powerplay, scoring the bulk of his runs in the first six overs and seizing momentum from the outset. His unbeaten century, a blend of precision and force, featured 10 boundaries. Seifert supported with a composed 58, providing stability while Allen dominated. Together they dismantled South Africa’s attack, enabling New Zealand to chase the target in 12.5 overs and finish at 173/1.
As a result of New Zealand's dominant chase, South Africa's defeat stings all the more. After an unbeaten group stage, the Proteas faltered under knockout pressure again and could not counter Allen’s aggression.
Looking Ahead to Ahmedabad
New Zealand now advances to the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad for the final. After narrowly missing the title in 2021, the Black Caps look determined to claim their maiden T20 crown. They will face the winner of Thursday’s second semi-final between hosts India and England.
