T20 World Cup: Finn Allen Breaks Records With Explosive Century

KOLKATA: New Zealand opener Finn Allen created history on Wednesday by blasting a 33-ball century during the first semi-final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 against South Africa at Eden Gardens.

Allen’s sensational innings powered the Blackcaps into the final of the 20-team tournament as New Zealand secured a commanding nine-wicket victory. The right-hander remained unbeaten on 100 from just 33 deliveries, striking 10 fours and eight sixes, and was named Player of the Match for his remarkable performance.

His century, scored off only 33 balls, is now the fastest hundred ever recorded in the history of the men’s T20 World Cup. The knock surpassed the previous record held by West Indies legend Chris Gayle, who had reached the milestone in 47 balls against England during the 2016 edition.

Gayle still features twice among the fastest centuries in the tournament’s history. England captain Harry Brook also appears on the list after his 50-ball century against Pakistan during the Super Eight stage of the current competition. Former New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum, now England’s head coach, remains in the top five with his 51-ball hundred against Bangladesh in the 2014 tournament.

Fastest centuries in men’s T20 World Cups

Finn Allen (New Zealand) – 33 balls vs South Africa, 2026

Chris Gayle (West Indies) – 47 balls vs England, 2016

Chris Gayle (West Indies) – 50 balls vs South Africa, 2007

Harry Brook (England) – 50 balls vs Pakistan, 2026

Brendon McCullum (New Zealand) – 51 balls vs Bangladesh, 2012

Allen’s remarkable effort also ranks among the quickest centuries in the overall history of men’s T20 Internationals. His 33-ball hundred places him joint third on the all-time list alongside Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza and Namibia’s Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton.

Estonia’s Sahil Chauhan holds the record for the fastest century in men’s T20Is after reaching the milestone in 27 balls against Cyprus in 2024. Turkey’s Muhammad Fahad follows with a 29-ball hundred against Bulgaria in 2025.