New Zealand storm into final with 9-wicket win

By Newsdesk March 4, 2026 Sports

KOLKATA: New Zealand delivered a commanding performance to defeat South Africa by nine wickets in the first semi-final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, securing a place in the final in emphatic fashion.

After winning the toss, New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner opted to field first. South Africa posted 169 for 8 in their allotted 20 overs, with Marco Jansen top-scoring with an unbeaten 55.

Other notable contributions came from Dewald Brevis (34) and Tristan Stubbs (29), while Aiden Markram (18), Quinton de Kock (10), and David Miller (6) failed to convert their starts.

For New Zealand, Matt Henry, Glenn Phillips (if McConchie intended, assumed Phillips), and Rachin Ravindra claimed two wickets each to restrict the Proteas below the 170-mark.

In reply, New Zealand’s openers dismantled the South African bowling attack. Finn Allen produced a breathtaking innings, smashing the fastest century in T20 World Cup history. He reached his hundred in just 33 balls, hammering 10 fours and eight sixes, rewriting the tournament record books.

Allen found strong support from Tim Seifert, who scored 58, as the Black Caps chased down the target in just 13 overs for the loss of one wicket. Rachin Ravindra remained unbeaten on 13.

The previous record for the fastest century in T20 World Cup history was held by West Indies legend Chris Gayle, who scored a 47-ball hundred against England in 2016.

Meanwhile, the second semi-final will see India face England in Mumbai tomorrow, with the winner set to meet New Zealand in the grand finale.