T20 World Cup: New Zealand demolish South Africa to storm into final

South Africa could not shake off their 'chokers' tag this time either. The Proteas crashed out of the T20 World Cup, suffering a defeat against New Zealand in the semi-final, laden with disappointment. Powered by opener Finn Allen's record-breaking century, New Zealand marched into the T20 World Cup final with a massive nine-wicket victory, chasing down the target with 43 balls to spare.

In the final showdown at Kolkata's Eden Gardens on Wednesday, March 4, New Zealand's openers Finn Allen and Tim Seifert launched a relentless assault on the Protea bowlers from the very start of the chase against South Africa's target of 170 runs. South Africa's title dreams were blown away by the storm from these two batters. While Seifert departed after a magnificent fifty, Allen remained unbeaten on 100, setting a new world record for the fastest century in T20 World Cup history. The Kiwis reached the victory shore in regal fashion, scoring 170 runs for the loss of just one wicket in a mere 12.5 overs.

Sent in to bat first after losing the toss, South Africa were uncomfortable from the outset. Kiwi off-spinner Cole McConkie worked his magic in the very second over of the innings. After dismissing Quinton de Kock at the team total of 10, he sent Ryan Rickelton back to the pavilion off the very next ball.

Before the Proteas could recover from the early jolt, on the third ball of the over, Proteas captain Aiden Markram survived a chance, dropped by Rachin Ravindra at mid-wicket off Lockie Ferguson's delivery. However, he failed to capitalise on the opportunity. On the team total of 55, he fell to the left-arm spin of Rachin himself for a personal score of 18. Meanwhile, David Miller, who also got a life on just 3 runs thanks to a dropped catch by Glenn Phillips, departed for 6 runs. Dewald Brevis (34), who showed signs of a storm, was halted by Jimmy Neesham. At 77 for 5 in 10.2 overs, South Africa feared losing their way.

Tristan Stubbs and Marco Jansen took on the responsibility of pulling the team back from the brink. A magnificent 73-run partnership for the sixth wicket between the pair brought the Proteas back into the match. Ferguson broke this dangerous partnership by bowling Stubbs for 29 runs. Had Stubbs stayed, the score might have been even larger. However, Jansen continued his onslaught while holding one end firm. Ultimately, the left-handed all-rounder remained unbeaten on 55 runs from 30 balls, studded with two fours and five sixes, dragging the team's score to 169 runs.

For New Zealand, Rachin Ravindra, Matt Henry, and Cole McConkie each took two wickets. Additionally, Lockie Ferguson and James Neesham claimed one wicket apiece.