Finn Allen’s explosive genius lit up Kolkata, as the New Zealand star forged the fastest T20 World Cup century in a semi-final rout of South Africa. His 33-ball 100* obliterated Chris Gayle’s 47-ball record from 2016 and eclipsed Dilshan’s 96* in knockouts.
With 10 fours and 8 sixes, Allen toyed with the South African attack after they posted 169/8—Jansen’s 55 the highlight. Chasing 170, New Zealand cruised to 173/1 in 12.5 overs. Seifert’s 58 off 33 complemented Allen perfectly, with Ravindra finishing 13* off 11.
This marks Allen as Kiwi T20 WC ton No. 3, behind McCullum (123 vs Bangladesh, 2012) and Phillips (104 vs Sri Lanka, 2022). Player of the Match honors followed, rightfully so for an innings that blended power, precision, and poise.
As New Zealand advances, Allen’s feat resonates beyond the scoreboard. It showcases the evolution of T20 batting, where young guns like him are pushing boundaries, leaving fans eager for more in the final showdown.