Finn Allen Shatters Yuvraj Singh's Record in T20 World Cup Semi-Final
Historic Achievement by Finn Allen
During the semi-final of the 2026 T20 World Cup held at Eden Gardens in Kolkata on March 4, Finn Allen made headlines by breaking a long-standing record set by Yuvraj Singh. The match saw New Zealand triumph over South Africa, securing their spot in the final scheduled for March 8 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Chasing a target of 169 runs, the Black Caps achieved victory with 43 balls remaining, winning by nine wickets. Allen's explosive performance included a remarkable century off just 33 balls, while Tim Seifert contributed significantly with 58 runs off 33 balls. Together, they formed a formidable opening partnership, amassing 117 runs in just 55 balls.
Finn Allen's Record-Breaking Half-Century
Finn Allen Creates History
Allen's half-century came in a record-breaking 19 balls, marking the fastest in T20 World Cup knockout history. This achievement surpasses the previous record held by Indian cricket icon Yuvraj Singh, who reached his fifty in 20 balls during the inaugural tournament in 2007 against Australia in Durban. Yuvraj's legendary innings of 70 runs off 30 balls played a crucial role in India's memorable victory.
Fastest Fifties in T20 World Cup Knockouts
Fastest 50s in T20 World Cup Knockouts
| Player | Balls Taken | Opponent | Venue | Year |
| Finn Allen (New Zealand) | 19 | South Africa | Kolkata | 2026 |
| Yuvraj Singh (India) | 20 | Australia | Durban | 2007 |
| Michael Hussey (Australia) | 22 | Pakistan | Gros Islet | 2010 |
| George Bailey (Australia) | 23 | West Indies | Colombo | 2012 |
| Heinrich Klaasen (South Africa) | 23 | India | Barbados | 2024 |
Additionally, Allen became the first player to score a century in a knockout match of the T20 World Cup. The previous record for the highest score in a semi-final or final was held by Tilakaratne Dilshan, who scored 96 runs against the West Indies in the 2009 semi-final at The Oval. Allen's innings included eight sixes, setting a new record for the most sixes in a knockout match, surpassing Alex Hales' previous record of seven sixes against India in the 2022 semi-final. Furthermore, Allen's century in 33 balls is now the fastest in T20 World Cup history, breaking Chris Gayle's record of 37 balls, and it stands as the quickest century against a Test-playing nation in T20I cricket.