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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 hits fastest T20 WC century in Kolkata

Shashwat Nishant New Delhi

3 min read Last Updated : Mar 04 2026 | 10:32 PM IST

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Finn Allen produced a breathtaking display of power-hitting and precision to smash the fastest century in T20 World Cup history tonight, propelling New Zealand to a dominant 9-wicket win in the semi-final against South Africa in Kolkata. Coming in at a brisk pace, Allen raced to 100 off just 33 balls, showcasing an astonishing strike rate of over 300. His hundred was completed off the same ball that got the Kiwis their winning runs on the night.

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

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His 117-run opening partnership against South Africa paved the way for the 170-run chase that was completed within 13 overs. Every shot seemed timed to perfection, with a flurry of boundaries and towering sixes that left the South African bowlers scrambling. Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada, and the rest of the attack were repeatedly dispatched to the boundary, unable to find a way to halt his momentum. His innings wasn’t just about power; it combined skill, timing, and composure under pressure, especially in a high-stakes knockout match. With Tim Seifert providing solid support at the other end, Allen’s record-breaking knock not only secured New Zealand’s place in the final at Ahmedabad but also left cricket fans worldwide in sheer awe. All-round display by the Kiwis dominates SA

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.