Finn Allen produced one of the most explosive innings in T20 cricket history as New Zealand defeated South Africa in the SA vs NZ semi final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. His stunning century helped New Zealand secure a place in the T20 World Cup final.
Fastest Century in T20 World Cup
During the NZ vs SA semi final 2026, Finn Allen smashed a 33-ball hundred, which is now considered one of the fastest centuries in T20 international cricket and the fastest century in T20 World Cup history. His powerful hitting stunned the South Africa national cricket team bowlers and gave New Zealand national cricket team a strong start.
Allen attacked from the very first over and quickly reached his half-century before racing to the fastest 100 in T20 World Cup cricket. The knock included multiple boundaries and sixes, putting South Africa under huge pressure in this important semi-final match.
NZ vs SA Match Highlights
In the New Zealand vs South Africa match, the New Zealand openers started aggressively. Finn Allen led the charge and dominated the bowlers. Players like Glenn Phillips and James Neesham also supported the innings with quick runs.
For South Africa, bowlers such as Corbin Bosch and Dewald Brevis tried to control the scoring, but the New Zealand batting lineup stayed on top for most of the match.
When South Africa came out to chase, the pressure of the big target made things difficult. Despite efforts from players like Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton, the team struggled to keep up with the required run rate.
Bowlers Seal the Win for New Zealand
New Zealand’s bowling attack also played an important role in the victory. Fast bowlers like Matt Henry and Lockie Ferguson took key wickets at crucial moments.
Captain Mitchell Santner controlled the middle overs well and made smart bowling changes to keep the South African batters under pressure.
New Zealand Reach T20 World Cup Final
With this win in the SA vs NZ T20 World Cup semi final, New Zealand secured their place in the T20 cricket World Cup final. The team will now look to continue their strong form and aim for the title.
However, the biggest highlight of the match remains Finn Allen’s record-breaking innings, which will be remembered as one of the fastest T20 centuries in international cricket history.
His incredible performance has now placed him among the players who hold records for the fastest century in T20 international cricket, and it has become one of the most talked-about moments of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.