Finn Allen scores fastest T20 World Cup hundred to book final berth for NZ
His 117-run opening partnership against South Africa paved the way for the 170-run chase that was completed within 13 overs.
 "Finn Allen scores fastest T20 World Cup hundred to book final berth for NZ")
| Fastest hundred in T20 World Cups | |||
| Player | Balls | Match | Date |
| Finn Allen | 33 | South Africa vs New Zealand | 04/03/26 |
| CH Gayle | 47 | West Indies v England | 16/03/16 |
| CH Gayle | 50 | West Indies v South Africa | 11/09/07 |
| Harry Brook | 50 | England v Pakistan | 24/02/26 |
| BB McCullum | 51 | New Zealand v Bangladesh | 21/09/12 |
| RR Rossouw | 52 | South Africa v Bangladesh | 27/10/22 |
| RR Rossouw | 52 | South Africa v Bangladesh | 27/10/22 |
| Pathum Nissanka | 52 | Sri Lanka v Australia | 16/02/26 |
New Zealand delivered a masterclass in batting to overwhelm South Africa in the T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final at Kolkata. Right from the start, openers Finn Allen and Tim Seifert dominated the South African bowlers, punishing any loose deliveries and taking complete control. Seifert was aggressive from the outset, smashing boundaries and a towering six off Marco Jansen, while Allen combined exquisite timing with raw power to dismantle the Proteas’ attack. By the end of the powerplay, New Zealand were 91 without loss, setting a new record for the highest T20 WC knockout powerplay score, surpassing England’s 67/0 in 2016.
The duo continued their dominance until Seifert fell for a quick 58 off 33 balls, bowled around his legs by Kagiso Rabada. Allen accelerated further alongside Rachin Ravindra, who added crucial quick runs. South African bowlers Corbin Bosch and Keshav Maharaj were repeatedly punished, with Allen hitting massive sixes and beautifully timed fours.
The highlight was Allen’s record-breaking century, the fastest in T20 World Cup history, reaching 100 off just 51 balls with an array of powerful shots and elegant wristwork. New Zealand’s 117-run opening stand laid the foundation for a commanding total. With Allen’s historic knock and consistent aggression, the Kiwis cruised to a dominant victory, securing a place in the final at Ahmedabad.