FINN ALLEN smashed the fastest century in T20 World Cup history and powered New Zealand national cricket team into the final.
New Zealand crushed South Africa national cricket team by nine wickets. The Black Caps chased 170 with 43 balls to spare.
Allen blasted 100 not out from just 33 balls. He struck 10 fours and eight sixes. He broke Chris Gayle’s record of a 47-ball century set in 2016. Allen reached his hundred 14 balls quicker. His knock now stands among the fastest in men’s T20 internationals.
Tim Seifert gave strong support. He scored 58 off 33 balls. The openers added 117 runs in only 55 balls. New Zealand dominated from the start.
Allen attacked in the middle overs. He smashed 42 runs off just 11 deliveries during a 56-run stand with Rachin Ravindra. He hit Marco Jansen for five straight boundaries to seal the win in style.
Earlier, South Africa struggled after losing the toss. They slipped to 12-2 inside two overs. Quinton de Kock and Ryan Rickelton fell quickly. Aiden Markram and David Miller failed to build partnerships.
Dewald Brevis scored 34 but chipped a simple catch. South Africa looked in trouble at 77-5.
Marco Jansen fought back with 55 not out from 30 balls. He added 73 runs with Tristan Stubbs. The Proteas reached 169-8 after a late surge.
However, the total proved too small. New Zealand smashed 84 runs in the powerplay. Only India managed a higher powerplay score earlier in the tournament.
Allen praised the bowlers for setting up the win. He said he enjoyed batting with Seifert and playing freely.
New Zealand now move into Sunday’s final with strong momentum and confidence.
