Finn Allen says New Zealand’s semi-final demolition of South Africa is a huge confidence boost as they target a maiden T20 World Cup title.
KOLKATA: Opener Finn Allen declared New Zealand’s confidence is sky-high ahead of their maiden T20 World Cup final appearance. Allen’s record-breaking century powered the Black Caps to a crushing nine-wicket semi-final victory over South Africa at Eden Gardens.
He smashed the fastest T20 World Cup hundred, off just 33 balls, to chase down a target of 170 with 7.1 overs to spare. His blistering 117-run opening stand with Tim Seifert (58) dismantled a Proteas attack featuring Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi.
“It’s a huge confidence booster for us going into Sunday,” Allen said of the win over the previously unbeaten 2024 runners-up. “They’ve been the in-form team the whole tournament.”
The Auckland-born batsman blasted 10 fours and eight sixes in a knockout performance that contrasted his earlier tournament form. He acknowledged the challenge posed by South Africa’s tall, fast bowlers and powerful batting lineup.
Allen hopes his heroics kept his parents and the nation awake to support the team. “I’m sure my parents are up watching the whole game,” he said.
He recognised the final in Ahmedabad, starting around 2.30am Monday New Zealand time, presents a viewing challenge. Allen hopes fans can get up and “have a Monday off at work” to watch.
Batting with the in-form Seifert made his task easier, according to Allen. “He’s an incredible player,” Allen stated.
“It makes it easy for me to sit back and have the best seat in the house.” New Zealand lost their group stage match to South Africa and only qualified for the semi-finals on net run-rate.
Allen believes a tough five-match T20 series in India before the World Cup, which they lost 4-1, was crucial preparation. “It shows the importance of that India series,” he said.
“It just shows that as a team we get up for the fight in those important fixtures.” The Black Caps will face the winner of the second semi-final between India and England.