New Delhi, March 5 -- New Zealand delivered a stunning performance to dismantle South Africa's unbeaten run in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, winning the first semi-final by nine wickets with 43 balls to spare at Eden Gardens. Finn Allen's explosive, record-breaking century powered the Black Caps to a dominant chase, booking their place in the final.

South Africa, who entered the knockout stage undefeated, were sent to bat first after New Zealand won the toss and chose to field. The Proteas struggled to build momentum on a pitch that offered good pace and bounce. Early wickets disrupted their flow, with key batters failing to convert starts.

Aiden Markram and Dewald Brevis showed some resistance, but the innings lacked big partnershi...