Afghanistan and New Zealand open their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaigns with a crucial Group clash at Chennai, where conditions are expected to test both skill and adaptability. With Afghanistan’s spin-heavy attack facing New Zealand’s explosive batting depth, the contest shapes up as a tactical battle rather than a one-sided affair.
Match details:
Match name: Afghanistan vs New Zealand, Match 4
Tournament: ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026
Date: Sunday, February 8, 2026
Venue: MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
Start time IST: 11:00 AM
Start time PST: 10:30 AM
Start time GMT: 5:30 AM
Team overview: Afghanistan
Afghanistan no longer carry the underdog label in T20 cricket. Their steady rise over the last few years has reshaped how opponents prepare for them, especially in global tournaments. Rashid Khan leads a well-balanced side that combines aggressive batting with one of the strongest spin attacks in world cricket. At the top, Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran provide intent and stability, setting platforms for the middle order that includes Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, and the experienced Mohammad Nabi. Afghanistan’s bowling strength remains their biggest weapon in subcontinental conditions, with Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, and Mujeeb Ur Rahman capable of controlling games through the middle overs. Fazalhaq Farooqi and Azmatullah Omarzai add pace and variation, giving Afghanistan multiple ways to apply pressure.
Team overview: New Zealand
New Zealand enter the tournament with mixed recent form but a proven record of peaking during ICC events. While bilateral results have not always gone their way, their tournament pedigree and tactical discipline make them a dangerous opponent. Mitchell Santner captains the side, offering calm leadership and balance. The batting unit features multiple power hitters, with Tim Seifert and Devon Conway likely to set the tempo at the top. Finn Allen, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, and Michael Bracewell provide depth and flexibility, allowing New Zealand to adapt to different match situations. With the ball, Matt Henry leads the pace attack, supported by Lockie Ferguson’s raw speed, while Santner and Ish Sodhi handle spin duties on a surface expected to offer turn.
Head-to-head record
Afghanistan and New Zealand have faced each other twice in T20 internationals. Both teams have won one match each, leaving the head-to-head record evenly poised at 1-1. This balance adds extra intrigue to their World Cup opener.
Pitch report: MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
The Chennai surface traditionally supports spinners as the match progresses, although batters can score freely early when the pitch remains firm. Morning conditions may assist stroke play initially, but as the game wears on, turn and grip are expected to increase. A first-innings total around 170 is considered competitive at this venue. Teams that manage the middle overs well, especially against spin, often gain a decisive advantage.
Weather report
Chennai is expected to experience warm and humid conditions on match day, with temperatures ranging between 27 and 32 degrees Celsius. No rain is forecast, and clear skies should allow for uninterrupted play throughout the morning fixture.
Probable playing XIs
Afghanistan probable XI: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wicketkeeper), Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Azmatullah Omarzai, Rashid Khan (captain), Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Mujeeb Ur Rahman.
New Zealand probable XI: Devon Conway (wicketkeeper), Finn Allen, Tim Seifert, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (captain), Ish Sodhi, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry.
Players to watch
Darwish Rasooli enters the tournament in strong form after consistent performances in recent series and warm-up matches. His ability to anchor and accelerate makes him a key figure in Afghanistan’s middle order. For New Zealand, Tim Seifert’s aggressive intent at the top can quickly shift momentum, especially if he capitalises on the early batting-friendly phase.
Live streaming and broadcast information
In India, the match will be broadcast live on the Star Sports Network, with digital streaming available via the JioHotstar app and website. Viewers in Pakistan can watch through official ICC broadcast partners on television and authorised digital platforms. In the United Kingdom, the game will air on licensed sports channels with streaming access through their official apps. Australian audiences can follow the match on approved sports broadcasters and their streaming services. Global viewers can tune in via ICC-authorised television networks and digital platforms in their respective regions.
Match scenario and prediction
New Zealand start with a slight edge due to their experience in pressure matches and depth across departments. Afghanistan’s chances improve significantly if their spinners control the middle overs and restrict New Zealand’s finishing options. The toss may influence strategy, with teams preferring to bowl first based on recent results at the venue. Over the course of 20 overs, New Zealand’s balanced attack and flexible batting lineup give them a narrow advantage, but Afghanistan possess enough quality to challenge them if key players deliver.
