Finn Allen credits India series for T20 World Cup success
What's the story
New Zealand's explosive opener Finn Allen has credited the recently concluded five-match series against India for their success in the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup. The Kiwis reached the final after a dominating nine-wicket win over South Africa at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Allen hammered an unbeaten 100 off just 33 balls, helping his team chase down a target of 170 in just 12.5 overs.
Match details
'Shows importance of India series': Allen
Allen's blistering innings included several sixes and boundaries, as he took on the South African attack. He credited the pre-tournament series against India for his team's preparation. "It just shows the importance of that India series the boys played before the World Cup. Five games on black soil... you can't replicate that kind of preparation," he said after New Zealand's win over South Africa.
IPL anticipation
Allen eager to play more on Indian wickets
Allen expressed his eagerness to play more on such wickets, especially after having played in Kolkata for the first time. He said he was elated to bat on that wicket a bit more often... It was his maiden T20I in Kolkata. It is worth noting that both Allen and Tim Seifert will play for the Kolkata Knight Riders in the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL).
Match
How the match panned out
South Africa suffered a batting collapse (77/5) after being invited to bat. However, Marco Jansen's explosive and unbeaten knock of 55 powered the Proteas to 169/8. In response, a 117-run opening stand between Seifert and Allen shattered South Africa's hopes. While Allen hammered a 33-ball century (100*), the Kiwis won by nine wickets in just 12.5 overs. Allen now has the fastest century in T20 World Cup history.