The T20 World Cup 2026 is happening now with 20 teams participating. Co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, the event runs from February 7 to March 8, offering a month of exciting Cricket. New Zealand will start their tournament against Afghanistan on February 8 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
New Zealand is in Group D with Afghanistan, the United Arab Emirates, South Africa, and Canada. Coming off a challenging 4-1 T20I series loss to India, the Kiwis are keen to start strong in this important tournament. Their match against Afghanistan is vital for setting the pace for the competition.
New Zealand’s T20I Record at MA Chidambaram Stadium
New Zealand has played only one T20I match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, which was a memorable event. This match took place during New Zealand’s tour of India in 2012, where they won by just one run against the hosts in the second T20I.
Batting first, New Zealand scored 167/5 in 20 overs. Brendon McCullum was the standout player, scoring 91 runs off 55 balls, with 11 fours and three sixes, achieving a strike rate of 165.45. Irfan Pathan was India’s best bowler with figures of 3/31 in four overs.
In reply, India finished slightly short at 166/4. Virat Kohli was the top scorer with 70 runs off 41 balls, hitting 10 fours and a six. Despite support from Yuvraj Singh, Suresh Raina, and MS Dhoni, India couldn’t secure the win. Kyle Mills and James Franklin took two wickets each for New Zealand.
Though historical data is limited, several current New Zealand players, including Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner, and Devon Conway, are familiar with the Chennai conditions from their time with Chennai Super Kings in the IPL. With their experienced squad, New Zealand will aim to secure another win in Chennai.
