KOLKATA – New Zealand stormed into the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup final after an extraordinary batting display from Finn Allen, who smashed the fastest century in the tournament’s history to lead his side to a commanding victory over South Africa in the semi-final at Eden Gardens on Wednesday.

Allen blasted a stunning hundred off just 33 balls, setting a new record for the fastest century in a men’s T20 World Cup. His breathtaking innings dismantled South Africa’s bowling attack and ensured New Zealand chased down their target with remarkable ease.

Opening alongside Tim Seifert, Allen launched an aggressive assault from the outset, peppering the boundary with a barrage of sixes and fours. His relentless hitting quickly took the game away from South Africa, leaving the opposition struggling to contain the onslaught.

The milestone moment came when Allen reached his century with a boundary off Marco Jansen, sealing both his third T20 international hundred and the match for New Zealand. His knock also ensured the Black Caps completed the chase with nine wickets in hand and more than seven overs to spare.

Seifert played the perfect supporting role as New Zealand cruised towards the target, while South Africa’s hopes of defending their total faded rapidly under Allen’s dominance.

The victory sends New Zealand into their second T20 World Cup final, marking a remarkable turnaround against a South African side that had entered the semi-final unbeaten and among the tournament favourites.

For South Africa, the defeat will be another painful chapter in their World Cup history, having come agonisingly close to the final after an impressive run throughout the tournament.