In a rematch of the group stage fixture, New Zealand delivered their most complete performance of the tournament, overpowering South Africa in the semi-final.
Cole McConchie struck twice in his opening over to remove Quinton de Kock and Ryan Rickelton, while Rachin Ravindra continued his superb form with crucial wickets, including Aiden Markram and David Miller. Despite Marco Jansen’s counter-attacking 55 off 30, South Africa were restricted to 170, a total which proved well short, thanks to a marvellous opening stand.
Finn Allen and Tim Seifert tore into the attack from the outset, racing to 84 in the powerplay. Their 117-run opening stand effectively ended the contest.
Allen went on to produce a historic innings, smashing the fastest century in Men’s T20 World Cup history off just 33 balls, eclipsing Chris Gayle’s previous record. He fittingly finished the chase with a boundary over mid-off as New Zealand stormed into the final with nine wickets in hand.