A powerful century from Finn Allen powered New Zealand into the final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 and a win over South Africa in their semi-final. The pivotal face-off took on the backdrop of Eden Gardens, Kolkata with fans eagerly waiting for the action as the high-octane battle started at 7:30 PM IST and had massive ramifications for both teams who were vying to grab a place in the final.
South Africa came into this knockout phase unbeaten and looking to rid themselves of their semi-final ghosts on the ICC stage while New Zealand sought to further enhance their reputation as big-match players. Ultimately, the Black Caps put on a near-identical performance and cruised home for a nine-wicket victory.
Match Highlights
After being invited to bat first, South Africa struggled early against disciplined New Zealand bowling. The Proteas plummeted to 77/5 before a late stand hoisted them to 169/8 in 20 overs. Marco Jansen made a fighting top-score of 55 (in 27 balls), with brief support from Tristan Stubbs.
New Zealand’s bowlers all chipped in. Cole McConchie took 2/9, and Rachin Ravindra also claimed a few for himself, returning 2/29 as he put the squeeze on in the middle overs.
Finn Allen’s Record Century
Thanks to Finn Allen, the chase became a one-sided spectacle. The explosive opener lit up with an unbeaten 100 off only 33 balls, the quickest century in Men’s T20 World Cup history. He hammered South Africa’s bowlers by scoring 10 fours and 8 sixes.
Tim Seifert (58 runs off 33 balls) gave strong support to Allen, as they shared a blistering opening partnership of 117 runs. Batting first, New Zealand reached 173/1 in just 12.5 overs and completed the chase with 43 balls remaining.
Batting Performances
Marco Jansen’s late assault was the standout for South Africa, while the top order — including Quinton de Kock and Aiden Markram — again failed to convert starts under pressure.
Finn Allen’s record-setting innings dominated New Zealand’s batting with a blistering half-century from Seifert leaving the Proteas unable to find their way back.
Bowling Performances
New Zealand’s bowlers stuck with their plans smartly, especially during the powerplay and middle overs. McConchie and Ravindra in particular did well to stall South Africa’s momentum.
South Africa’s bowlers, however, did not have a good night. Not even the seasoned heads of Kagiso Rabada or Keshav Maharaj could rein in Allen’s assault.
Match Score Summary
South Africa: 169/8 (20 overs)
- Marco Jansen 55*
- Tristan Stubbs 29
- Cole McConchie 2/9
- Rachin Ravindra 2/29
New Zealand: 173/1 (12.5 overs)
- Finn Allen 100* (33)
- Tim Seifert 58 (33)
- Kagiso Rabada 1 wicket
Results: New Zealand won by 9 wickets.
Why This Match Matters
This emphatic victory in New Zealand vs South Africa T20 World Cup 2026 Semi Final takes New Zealand through to yet another ICC final and reaffirms their status as a ruthless knockout team. For South Africa, it is another cruel chapter in their sorrowful story of failing the semi-finals hurdle at an ICC event. Finn Allen has them in record-breaking form and now the Black Caps march into the final as serious title contenders.