Kolkata, March 4 (NationPress) In a stunning display of batting talent, Finn Allen achieved one of the most remarkable feats in the history of the Men’s T20 World Cup, scoring an incredible unbeaten century in just 33 balls. This explosive performance propelled New Zealand to a dominant nine-wicket victory over South Africa at Eden Gardens on Wednesday.

While chasing a target of 170, Allen unleashed a barrage of shots against the formidable South African bowling lineup, striking ten boundaries and eight massive sixes. His incredible innings not only set a new record for the fastest century in Men’s T20 World Cup history but also marked the first century scored in a knockout match. This was Allen's third T20I century and tied for the joint-fastest century by a batter from a full member nation, further solidifying his status as one of the most explosive openers in T20 cricket.

Allen's fireworks were well-supported by Tim Seifert, who contributed a solid 58 runs off 33 balls. The duo formed a remarkable 117-run opening partnership, effectively extinguishing South Africa's hopes of defending their score of 169/8. This victory not only marked New Zealand's first T20 World Cup win against South Africa but also sent a clear message ahead of their upcoming final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

For South Africa, this loss was another disappointing chapter in major ICC knockout matches. They entered the tournament as favorites and remained unbeaten until this point, but were thoroughly outclassed. Despite Marco Jansen's commendable 55 runs, his efforts were overshadowed by Allen's explosive performance, as New Zealand advanced to their second Men’s T20 World Cup final.

During the chase, Seifert began with a series of edges off Marco Jansen, which brought him boundaries. Allen soon joined the action, driving Rabada for four and clearing the boundary with authority off Jansen. Seifert and Allen quickly raced past fifty runs within four overs, showcasing their aggressive intent.

Allen particularly targeted Corbin Bosch in the final over of the power-play, scoring 22 runs from that over alone, which included four boundaries and a six. This propelled New Zealand to 91/0, marking their highest score in the first six overs in Men’s T20 World Cup history. Seifert reached his half-century in just 22 balls, while Allen secured his fifty in 19 deliveries.

The opening partnership of 117 runs came to an end when Seifert was dismissed by Rabada in the 10th over. With Rachin Ravindra joining Allen, the momentum remained high as Allen continued his assault, hitting boundaries off Bosch, Maharaj, and Jansen.

Allen reached his century in a mere 33 balls, concluding the chase with a flat six over mid-off, celebrating with a roar of triumph. His teammates erupted in joy as New Zealand secured their place in the final through one of the most commanding chases in the tournament's history.

Brief Scores: South Africa 169/8 in 20 overs (Marco Jansen 55 not out, Dewald Brevis 34; Cole McConchie 2-9, Rachin Ravindra 2-29) lost to New Zealand 173/1 in 12.5 overs (Finn Allen 100 not out, Tim Seifert 58; Kagiso Rabada 1-28) by nine wickets.