Finn Allen didn't just win the semi-final for New Zealand; he rewrote the history books. In a breathtaking display of power hitting, Allen smashed the fastest century in Men’s T20 World Cup history, reaching the milestone in a mere 33 deliveries.
His explosive innings eclipsed the long-standing record held by Chris Gayle, who reached triple figures in 47 balls back in 2016. Allen finished unbeaten, having peppered the boundary with 10 fours and 8 sixes.
Read also: ICC Men's T20 World Cup winners list
Fastest Centuries: Men's T20 World Cup
| Player | Deliveries | Opponent | Year |
| Finn Allen (NZ) | 33 balls | South Africa | 2026 |
| Chris Gayle (WI) | 47 balls | England | 2016 |
| Chris Gayle (WI) | 50 balls | South Africa | 2007 |
| Harry Brook (ENG) | 50 balls | Pakistan | 2026 |
| Brendon McCullum (NZ) | 51 balls | Bangladesh | 2012 |
Clinical Execution
Into the Final!
The fastest ICC Men’s T20 World Cup century ever from Finn Allen (100* off 33) leads the chase in Kolkata 🔥 #T20WorldCup | 📸 = ICC/Getty pic.twitter.com/TUfYc5k48u
While Allen and opening partner Tim Seifert (58) made quick work of the 170-run target—chasing it down in less than 13 overs—the foundation was laid by a disciplined bowling unit.
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Early Breakthroughs: Matt Henry, Rachin Ravindra, and Cole McConchie claimed two wickets apiece.
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Strategic Win: Captain Mitch Santner’s toss win allowed the bowlers to set a tone that stifled South Africa’s dangerous middle order.
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The Result: A dominant nine-wicket victory that marks New Zealand's first return to the final since 2021.
"The bowlers set the tone for us. Taking early wickets on what we thought was a great batting surface was crucial. They set it up, and Timmy and I just tried to stay positive and take the bull by the horns." — Finn Allen
Chris Lynn on Fin Allen's Instagram Post.
— Rokte Amar KKR (@Rokte_Amarr_KKR) March 5, 2026
Knight Bond Everywhere. 💜🤝 pic.twitter.com/IAssbsD3tM
Eyes on the Prize
The Black Caps now travel to Ahmedabad to face either India or England in Sunday’s final. While England previously defeated New Zealand in the Super Eights, Allen remains unfazed by the potential opponent.
"We’ve got a lot of momentum," Allen noted. "If we play our best cricket, we can beat anybody. Sunday is going to be a spectacle."
