New Zealand vs Afghanistan T20 World Cup 2026 Live Cricket Score Updates
In a highly anticipated clash at the T20 World Cup 2026, New Zealand faces Afghanistan at the iconic Chepauk Stadium in Chennai. This match carries significant weight, as Afghanistan delivered a crushing defeat to the Kiwis in their last T20 World Cup encounter, a memory that still haunts the New Zealand squad.
Historical Context and Revenge Motive
The previous meeting between these teams in the group stage saw Afghanistan dominate with a resounding victory. Rahmanullah Gurbaz played a stellar innings, scoring 80 runs off 56 balls, propelling Afghanistan to a total of 159/6. In response, New Zealand collapsed dramatically, bowled out for a mere 75 runs, thanks to exceptional bowling performances from captain Rashid Khan and Fazalhaq Farooqi, who each claimed four-wicket hauls. This defeat left a lasting impact on New Zealand, and they enter today's match with revenge firmly on their minds.
New Zealand's Depleted Squad Challenges
However, New Zealand's path to redemption is fraught with challenges. The team is grappling with a severely depleted squad due to a series of injuries and illnesses. Key batters Rachin Ravindra and Devon Conway have been struck down with illness, while Finn Allen is nursing a shoulder injury sustained during the recent series against India. Additionally, allrounder Michael Bracewell and fast bowler Lockie Ferguson are dealing with calf issues, further weakening the Kiwi lineup. This comes after New Zealand suffered a 4-1 series defeat to India just before the T20 World Cup, adding to their woes.
Afghanistan's Formidable Lineup
In contrast, Afghanistan appears strong and confident, with a squad brimming with talent. Led by the dynamic Rashid Khan, the team includes power hitters like Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran, alongside skilled bowlers such as Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Noor Ahmad. Afghanistan's recent form and cohesive unit make them a formidable opponent, poised to capitalize on New Zealand's vulnerabilities.
Squads for the Match
Afghanistan Squad: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (w), Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan (c), Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Shahidullah Kamal, Mohammad Ishaq, Ziaur Rahman Sharifi, Abdullah Ahmadzai.
New Zealand Squad: Finn Allen, Tim Seifert (w), Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Kyle Jamieson, Ish Sodhi, Lockie Ferguson, Jacob Duffy, James Neesham, Matt Henry, Devon Conway, Mark Chapman.
Broader Tournament Context
This match is part of a tournament that has already seen thrilling upsets and close contests. On the opening day, the Netherlands nearly stunned Pakistan in Colombo, while in Mumbai, the United States team, composed of immigrants, pushed India to the brink, reducing them to 77 for 6 before Suryakumar Yadav's resilient innings secured a win. These events highlight the competitive nature of this T20 World Cup, where associate nations are proving to be serious contenders, challenging the traditional cricket elites.
As the action unfolds at Chepauk Stadium, cricket fans worldwide are tuning in for real-time updates and in-depth coverage. Stay connected for live score updates and comprehensive analysis of this crucial encounter between New Zealand and Afghanistan in the T20 World Cup 2026.
