Finn Allen delivered a remarkable performance at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, scoring a sensational century that propelled the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to an impressive eight-wicket victory over the Delhi Capitals in IPL 2026. The explosive opener reached his hundred in just 47 balls, significantly shifting the momentum in KKR’s favor during the chase.
The innings did not start smoothly for the New Zealand batter, as early pitch conditions posed challenges for stroke-makers. However, Allen began cautiously, taking time to assess the situation before launching a powerful counterattack once he found his footing.
Once in rhythm, the wicketkeeper-batter dismantled the Delhi bowling lineup, clearing the ropes ten times throughout his innings. His efforts ensured that KKR completed the chase with 34 balls to spare.
In addition to securing victory for his team, Allen achieved a notable milestone in T20 cricket by becoming the first New Zealander to score three T20 centuries in a single calendar year. Prior to this match, he had scored a 53-ball century for the Perth Scorchers in the Big Bash League, followed by another century during the T20 World Cup semi-final against South Africa.
Allen was named Player of the Match for his outstanding performance. In the post-match presentation, he emphasized the importance of pacing an innings and adjusting to the match situation. “I think when the situation comes to it, you just forget about my batting and play the situation. I think I knew if I stayed out there for a long period of time, I always come back to trying to bat 40 balls. It doesn’t happen too often, but that was just what was keeping me ticking today and trying to take it deep,” Allen stated.
With this victory, KKR climbed to seventh place on the points table, now just three points behind the fourth-placed Rajasthan Royals.
