New Zealand’s Finn Allen delivered a stunning performance in the T20 World Cup semi-final against South Africa, scoring an unbeaten century off just 33 balls. This spectacular achievement nursed New Zealand home to an emphatic nine-wicket win. It took Allen’s century to the fastest in T20 World Cup history, as well. He gave a real blitzkrieg-type performance, hitting 10 fours and an astonishing eight sixes. With sheer power and precision, this dazzling performance took his team to the final, putting him on display.
Her only blip came during the semifinal against Comilla Victorians at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground when Allen opened the innings alongside Tim Seifert. Together, they created a powerful opening 117-run stand, establishing the perfect foundation for New Zealand’s pursuit. Allen reached his half-century in a mere 19 balls! He demonstrated his talent for running the show with the ball straight out of the gate.
In the power play, Allen and Seifert bludgeoned a staggering 84 runs off just six overs, effectively putting South Africa on the back foot. Allen was just as aggressive during his entire innings. His innings included 88 runs from boundaries and he faced only three dot balls. His newly found propulsive scoring was even more evident as he upshifted to bag his second fifty in only 14 balls.
Over the course of the match, Allen went about shredding South Africa’s bowling lineup. He did pump 22 runs off Corbin Bosch’s last over of the power play. This extraordinary achievement goes to prove his consideration as one of the most ferocious strikers of the white-ball format. His contributions were historic too, especially considering he scored 24 runs during the winning over.
Finn Allen’s record-breaking century had onlookers and greats of the game speechless. Former cricket great Sachin Tendulkar took to social media to express his admiration, stating:
“Semi-finals usually keep you on the edge of your seat. Today, Finn Allen finished it before we could settle in! What a game!” – Sachin Tendulkar
Allen’s performance wasn’t just impressive to fans, he caused a ripple effect bringing out praise from a diverse mix of sports commentators and analysts. One commentator exclaimed:
“Finn Allen just broke the speed limit! 33 balls is all it took to rewrite the history books. Pure carnage from the Kiwi opener!” – Sportify
The reaction from fans was equally enthusiastic, with one fan tweeting:
“Finn Allen – you are a FREAK! 100 not out off just 33 balls – fastest century in T20 World Cup history! He smashed records, broke hearts and made the whole world stand up. The roar. The celebration. Pure cinema!” – The WatchMan
After the game, Finn Allen stood by the importance of what he just did, yet he was clearly focused on the task ahead—the final.
“Finn Allen just turned a semi final into a highlight reel 😭 33 balls, 10 sixes… this is T20 violence and Sachin’s loving it.”
Following the match, Finn Allen acknowledged the significance of his achievement but remained focused on the upcoming final.
“You take the positives from this game, celebrate a little moment of success but then we’ve got a final to win on Sunday — so we’ll look forward to that.” – Finn Allen
