New Zealand produced a commanding performance to defeat South Africa in the first semi-final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. A remarkable century from Finn Allen powered the Black Caps to a comfortable nine-wicket victory while chasing a competitive target.
The win sends New Zealand into yet another ICC tournament final, continuing their reputation as one of the most consistent teams on the global stage.
South Africa Post 169/8 After Late Fightback
South Africa’s innings began under pressure after losing early wickets during the powerplay. New Zealand’s bowlers used the surface effectively, restricting the flow of runs and forcing the Proteas batters to rebuild.
Off-spin all-rounder Cole McConchie provided an early breakthrough by dismissing Quinton de Kock and Ryan Rickelton in the same over. Later in the innings, Rachin Ravindra delivered a disciplined spell that included key wickets in the middle overs.
Despite the early setbacks, Marco Jansen produced an impressive counterattack. The tall left-hander struck a powerful unbeaten half-century and helped South Africa push their total close to 170.
South Africa Batting
Marco Jansen – 55* (30)
Dewald Brevis – 34 (27)
Tristan Stubbs – 29 (24)
David Miller – 6 (6)
New Zealand Bowling
Cole McConchie – 2 wickets
Rachin Ravindra – 2/29
Matt Henry – 2 wickets
Lockie Ferguson – 1 wicket
South Africa finished their innings at 169/8 in 20 overs.
Finn Allen Leads Explosive New Zealand Chase
New Zealand’s reply began with an aggressive opening partnership between Finn Allen and Tim Seifert. The duo quickly shifted momentum by attacking the South African bowling attack from the very beginning.
Seifert played an important role in the early overs, scoring quickly to maintain pressure on the opposition. However, the innings belonged to Finn Allen, who delivered one of the most memorable performances in T20 World Cup history.
Allen reached his century in just 33 balls, striking boundaries all around the ground and dismantling the South African attack.
New Zealand Batting
- Finn Allen – 100* (33)
- Tim Seifert – 58 (33)
- Rachin Ravindra – 13* (11)
New Zealand chased down the target comfortably, finishing at 173/1 in 12.5 overs.
Match Summary
- South Africa: 169/8 (20 overs)
- New Zealand: 173/1 (12.5 overs)
- Result: New Zealand won by 9 wickets
Key Performances
- Finn Allen – 100* (33 balls)
- Tim Seifert – 58 (33 balls)
- Marco Jansen – 55* (30 balls)
- Rachin Ravindra – 2/29
New Zealand Reach Another ICC Final
With this victory, New Zealand advance to the final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. The result also highlights the team’s remarkable consistency in global tournaments over the past decade.
The Black Caps will now prepare for the championship match as they aim to secure another major international title.
