South Africa’s unbeaten streak in the tournament was ended by New Zealand, as the first semi-final was won by nine wickets. Finn Allen’s record ton blasted New Zealand past South Africa into the T20 World Cup final, with an unbeaten 100 scored off just 33 balls, marking the fastest century in T20 World Cup history. According to Allen, the innings was the best of his career, and only two international T20 centuries have been scored faster.
The defeat was attributed by South Africa’s captain, Aiden Markram, to changing conditions. “Emotions will be allowed to settle, and reflection will follow before improvements are attempted,” he said. “The result has been hugely disappointing, and it feels like a slap in the face.”
Despite having won all seven of their tournament games—including a seven-wicket victory over New Zealand in the group stage—South Africa was undone when New Zealand’s captain, Mitchell Santner, won the toss and chose to bowl first, exposing their attack to field in the dew.
While a few fielding errors were made by New Zealand, including dropped catches by Rachin Ravindra and Glenn Phillips, and 42 runs were conceded off three overs by Jimmy Neesham, South Africa failed to capitalize, finishing with a total of 169 runs.
Confidence was gained by New Zealand’s openers, Tim Seifert and Finn Allen, as they attacked the South African fast bowlers, scoring 84 runs off the powerplay. By the time Seifert was dismissed by Kagiso Rabada, New Zealand had reached 117 for 1 in 9.1 overs, effectively securing victory.
South Africa’s innings was derailed by Cole McConchie, who removed both Quinton de Kock and Ryan Rickelton in his only over, leaving the team at 48 for 2 after the powerplay. Wickets were then taken by Santner and Ravindra, with Markram and David Miller caught in the deep while attempting big shots, sealing New Zealand’s win.
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