Another heartbreak for Proteas; Kiwis flying high, courtesy Finn Allen show

KOLKATA: New Zealand stormed into the T20 World Cup final with a devastating nine-wicket demolition of South Africa at Eden Gardens. Finn Allen produced the innings of a lifetime, smashing the fastest century in World Cup history to end the Proteas’ unbeaten run. The Kiwis chased down 170 in just 12.5 overs, leaving a shell-shocked South African side to reflect on another semifinal heartbreak.

Allen was unstoppable from the first ball. He reached his hundred in just 33 deliveries, obliterating the previous record. His brutal assault included 10 boundaries and eight towering sixes. Opening partner Tim Seifert provided the perfect support, scoring a blistering 58 off 33 balls. Together, they plundered 84 runs in the powerplay, the highest ever in tournament history. Kagiso Rabada claimed the lone wicket of Seifert, but the damage was already done.

Earlier, South Africa struggled after winning the toss and electing to bat. They were reeling at 77 for five after 11 overs as the Kiwi spinners took control. Cole McConchie struck early, removing Quinton de Kock and Ryan Rickelton in consecutive deliveries. Rachin Ravindra also claimed two crucial wickets, dismissing captain Aiden Markram and David Miller.

Marco Jansen staged a lone rescue mission for the Proteas. He struck an unbeaten 55 off 30 balls, featuring five sixes. Alongside Tristan Stubbs, who added a vital 29, Jansen pushed the total to a competitive 169 for eight. However, the target proved meagre against Allen’s relentless power-hitting.

New Zealand now travels to Ahmedabad for the final on March 8. They will face the winner of the second semifinal between India and England. After years of near-misses, the Black Caps are now just one win away from their first-ever T20 World Cup title.