India, March 4 -- Finn Allen tore into the record books with a breathtaking 33-ball hundred in the T20 World Cup semi-final against South Africa, propelling New Zealand into the title clash. The explosive opener came out swinging and never eased off, peppering the ground with towering sixes and rasping fours that left the bowlers scrambling for answers.

Allen needed only 19 balls to bring up his half-century and never lifted his foot off the pedal after that, transforming a potentially tricky chase into a lopsided affair as he surged to a 33-ball hundred. With each passing over, New Zealand's hold on the match strengthened while he tore into the bowling with audacious, clean hitting.

The 170-run target quickly appeared modest as runs fl...