Image Source: ICC
New Zealand registered a solid start to their T20 World Cup 2026 journey by defeating Afghanistan by five wickets in Chennai on Saturday.
Set a target of 183, the Black Caps completed the chase at 183 for 5 in 17.5 overs, led by a calm and decisive knock from Tim Seifert.
Afghanistan made an immediate impact with the ball as Mujeeb Ur Rahman struck twice in the second over.
Mujeeb Ur Rahman dismissed Finn Allen and Rachin Ravindra on consecutive deliveries, pushing New Zealand into trouble at 14 for 2 early in the chase.
Tim Seifert then took control of the innings, combining with Glenn Phillips to rebuild the chase through a crucial third-wicket partnership worth 74 runs. Phillips played a brisk innings, scoring 42 from 25 balls with seven fours and one six before his dismissal at 88.
Seifert continued to marshal the innings and later shared a useful 36-run stand with Mark Chapman.
He departed after scoring 65 off 42 deliveries, an innings highlighted by seven boundaries and three sixes that firmly shifted momentum in New Zealand’s favour.
Lower Order Sees the Game Through
Chapman added a lively 28 off 17 balls, while Daryl Mitchell provided late acceleration with 25 from just 14 deliveries. Captain Mitchell Santner remained unbeaten on 17 from eight balls, guiding his side home without further drama.
Mujeeb Ur Rahman emerged as Afghanistan’s most successful bowler, finishing with figures of 2 for 31.
Rashid Khan, Azmatullah Omarzai and Mohammad Nabi claimed one wicket each.
Earlier, Afghanistan posted 182 for 6 after choosing to bat, with Gulbadin Naib leading the scoring with 63 off 35 balls. Seifert was later named Player of the Match for his pivotal contribution.
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