Chennai, February 8, 2026 – A brilliant knock by Tim Seifert guided New Zealand to a thrilling five-wicket victory over Afghanistan in Match 4 of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, played in Chennai on Sunday.
The win helped the Black Caps avenge their heavy defeat against Afghanistan in the previous edition and placed them firmly in contention early in Group D.
Chasing a challenging target, New Zealand were reduced to 14 for 2 after a fiery opening spell by Mujeeb Ur Rahman, who struck twice in his first over. However, Seifert steadied the innings with a composed and aggressive 65 off 42 balls. He found strong support from Glenn Phillips, whose quick-fire 42 off 25 deliveries shifted momentum back in New Zealand’s favor. The duo added a crucial 74-run partnership, laying the foundation for the chase. Later, Mark Chapman chipped in with vital runs before Daryl Mitchell and skipper Mitchell Santner calmly finished the chase with more than two overs to spare.
Earlier, Afghanistan posted a competitive total, powered by a career-best T20I innings from Gulbadin Naib, who smashed 63 off 35 balls. He shared a key 79-run stand with Atal, while Mohammad Nabi and Azmatullah Omarzai provided late acceleration. For New Zealand, Santner bowled an economical spell, conceding just 23 runs, while Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, Jacob Duffy, and Rachin Ravindra picked up wickets.
Reflecting on the victory, New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner praised his team’s composure under pressure, while Afghanistan skipper Rashid Khan admitted his side leaked too many runs in the middle overs.
Seifert was named Player of the Match for his match-winning performance, as New Zealand registered their highest successful chase in T20 World Cup history.