New Zealand secured a place in the ICC T20 World Cup final after a commanding nine-wicket victory over South Africa in the first semi-final held in Kolkata.
Chasing a target of 170, the Black Caps produced a remarkable batting display, reaching the total with ease while losing only one wicket and with 43 balls still remaining.Opener Finn Allen led the charge with a sensational unbeaten century off just 33 deliveries. His explosive knock included 10 boundaries and 8 towering sixes, putting South Africa’s bowling attack under relentless pressure from the start.
Tim Seifert was the only New Zealand batter to lose his wicket, scoring a solid 58 runs before being dismissed. Meanwhile, Rachin Ravindra remained unbeaten on 13 as New Zealand comfortably sealed the victory.
Earlier in the match, South Africa posted 169 for 8 in their allotted 20 overs after being put under pressure by the New Zealand bowling unit.Marco Jansen provided a strong late boost for the Proteas with an impressive unbeaten 55 runs in the lower order. Dewald Brevis added 34 runs, while Tristan Stubbs contributed 29.
However, South Africa’s top order failed to build momentum. Captain Aiden Markram managed 18 runs, Quinton de Kock scored 10, David Miller made 6, and Ryan Rickelton was dismissed without opening his account.
New Zealand’s bowling attack delivered a disciplined performance, with Cole McConchie, Matt Henry, and Rachin Ravindra claiming two wickets each. Lockie Ferguson and Jimmy Neesham also chipped in with one wicket apiece.
It is worth noting that New Zealand reached the semi-final from Group 2, while South Africa advanced from Group 1.
