Match Summary:
- Match: New Zealand vs Afghanistan, Match 4
- Tournament: ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026
- Venue: MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
- Afghanistan: 182/6 (20 overs)
- New Zealand: 183/5 (17.5 overs)
- Result: New Zealand won by 5 wickets
New Zealand started their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with a strong and confident win over Afghanistan in Group D. The match was played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, where New Zealand chased down a challenging target of 183 runs to win by five wickets with 13 balls remaining.
Batting first, Afghanistan put up an impressive total of 182 for 6 in their 20 overs. The highlight of their innings was a powerful knock from Gulbadin Naib, who scored 63 runs off just 35 balls. His aggressive batting helped Afghanistan set a competitive total on a pitch that looked good for batting. Other Afghan batters also supported well, ensuring steady runs throughout the innings.
While chasing 183, New Zealand faced early trouble when Afghanistan spinner Mujeeb Ur Rahman picked up two quick wickets in the second over. At that moment, the pressure was clearly on the Kiwi side. However, opener Tim Seifert played a calm and sensible innings, scoring 65 runs off 42 balls. He held one end firmly and did not let the early wickets affect the chase.
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Glenn Phillips then added momentum with an attacking knock of 42 runs off 25 balls. His clean hitting shifted the match firmly in New Zealand’s favour. Together, Seifert and Phillips rebuilt the innings and made the target look achievable despite the early setbacks.
The chase was later finished smoothly by Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, and captain Mitchell Santner, who contributed useful runs and ensured there were no late surprises. New Zealand reached 183 for 5 in just 17.5 overs, registering their highest successful run chase in T20 World Cup history.
With this win, New Zealand have gained important points in Group D and sent a strong message to other teams in the tournament. Afghanistan, despite the loss, showed good fight and will look to bounce back in their upcoming matches.