The first semifinal of the ICC T20 World Cup was played today between South Africa and New Zealand at the historic Eden Gardens Stadium in Kolkata, with New Zealand registering a dominant nine-wicket victory to book their place in the final.

Chasing a target of 170, New Zealand cruised to 173 for the loss of just one wicket in only 12.5 overs. South Africa had earlier posted 169 runs on the board.

Opening batter Finn Allen delivered a sensational performance, smashing an unbeaten 100 off just 33 balls. His explosive knock included 10 fours and 8 sixes, completely dismantling the South African bowling attack.

Earlier, New Zealand bowler Cole McConchie put South Africa on the back foot with two crucial wickets in consecutive deliveries. He first dismissed Ryan Rickelton for a duck and then removed the dangerous Quinton de Kock for 10 runs on the very next ball.

New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner had won the toss and opted to bowl first, citing good pitch conditions and expressing confidence in restricting the opposition to a manageable total. He acknowledged South Africa as a strong side and emphasized the need to apply pressure from the start.

Historically, South Africa had an excellent record against New Zealand in World Cup encounters, winning all five previous matches between the two sides. However, this was the first time they faced each other in a semifinal.

With this victory, New Zealand advance to the final, where they will face the winner of the second semifinal between India and England.