New Zealand advanced to the T20 World Cup final after a dominant nine-wicket victory over South Africa in the semi-final held at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.
Key Takeaways
New Zealand advanced to the T20 World Cup final after a dominant nine-wicket victory over South Africa in the semi-final held at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.
- New Zealand's Finn Allen scored the fastest century in T20 World Cup history, remaining not out with 100 runs off just 33 balls.
- Tim Seifert contributed significantly to their opening partnership of 117 runs.
- South Africa posted a total of 169-8, led by Marco Jansen's unbeaten 55.
- New Zealand chased down the target in just 12.5 overs with Allen and Seifert smashing boundaries and sixes.
- This victory marks New Zealand’s second appearance in a T20 World Cup final.
The Kiwis' Finn Allen smashed an unbeaten century off just 33 balls, setting a new record for the fastest century in T20 World Cup history. His blistering innings included 10 fours and eight sixes, propelling New Zealand to 173-1 in only 12.5 overs.
Allen's power-hitting was complemented by Tim Seifert, who scored 58 runs and together they put on a 100-run partnership off just nine overs. Their aggressive batting saw them smash boundaries and sixes, making the chase look effortless.
The Proteas had posted a total of 169-8 in their innings, with Marco Jansen contributing an unbeaten 55 runs off 30 balls. Despite a strong bowling performance by South Africa's spinners Rachin Ravindra and Cole McConchie, who took two wickets each, they were unable to contain the Kiwis' batting onslaught.
South Africa captain Aiden Markram acknowledged New Zealand's superior performance, stating that Allen and Seifert's knocks killed the game early. The Proteas had come into the playoffs with seven straight wins but fell short in their bid for a second successive final appearance.
The victory marks New Zealand’s second appearance in a T20 World Cup final, having previously won the tournament in 2021. They will now face either India or England in Sunday's final at Ahmedabad.
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