New Zealand and Afghanistan are set to clash in match four of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, starting February 8. This match is part of a busy second day, which also features England against Nepal and co-hosts Sri Lanka taking on Ireland.
Both teams bring quality to the field, promising an exciting encounter. They are in Group D alongside South Africa, Canada, and the UAE.
New Zealand faced a 4-1 loss to India leading up to the tournament, while Afghanistan recently defeated the West Indies 2-1. They also performed well in two warm-up matches for the T20 World Cup.
In the last World Cup, New Zealand exited early, while Afghanistan advanced to the semi-finals.
New Zealand T20I squad
Mitchell Santner (c), Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi.
New Zealand aims to find balance with a squad rich in experience. Captain Mitchell Santner is aware of the challenges posed by Afghanistan and will need to strategize accordingly.
Afghanistan T20I squad
Rashid Khan (c), Noor Ahmad, Abdullah Ahmadzai, Sediqullah Atal, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Mohammad Ishaq Rahimi, Shahidullah Kamal, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Darwish Rasooli, Ibrahim Zadran, Zia Ur Rahman Sharifi
Reserves: AM Ghazanfar, Ijaz Ahmadzai, Farid Ahmad Malik.
Afghanistan will rely on their experienced players under Rashid Khan. Their strong spin attack can create problems for New Zealand on a pitch that favors spin bowlers.
What is the H2H record between New Zealand and Afghanistan?
In their head-to-head record, both teams have faced each other twice, with each side winning once.
Probable XI of both teams
NZ probable XI for the match against AFG: Finn Allen, Tim Seifert, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner, Jacob Duffy, Ish Sodhi, Matt Henry.
AFG probable XI for the match versus NZ: Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan (c), Abdullah Ahmadzai, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Noor Ahmad.
MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai & Key Details of the Stadium
The MA Chidambaram Stadium, also known as Chepauk Stadium, was established in 1916 and is the second oldest stadium in India. Managed by the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association, it has a capacity of over 38,000. The first T20I here took place in 2012, when India faced New Zealand.
What is the Pitch like at the MA Chidambaram Stadium?
This stadium usually favors spinners due to the pitch’s grip and variation. Afghanistan’s spin unit is well-suited to take advantage of these conditions. Batting can be challenging, rewarding disciplined bowlers, and both teams will aim to build pressure through spin bowling.
Key Stats & Records at the MA Chidambaram Stadium
Only three T20Is have been played here. New Zealand defeated India in the first match in 2012. England and West Indies lost to India in subsequent matches. Afghanistan is set to play their first T20I at this venue.
India set the highest total here with 182/4 against West Indies in 2018, while New Zealand scored 167/5 versus India in 2012. The lowest score is England’s 165/9 against India in 2025.
Shikhar Dhawan and Brendon McCullum have the most runs here with 92 and 91, respectively. Among bowlers, Brydon Carse and Irfan Pathan have taken three wickets each.
NZ vs AFG: Weather Forecast – Will Rain Play a Role?
The forecast shows clear skies with warmer conditions than the rest of India. Temperatures in Chennai are expected between 28 to 30 degrees Celsius with humidity over 50 percent and light winds at 6-8 km/h.
NZ vs AFG: Pitch Advantage for Which Side?
Considering the pitch conditions, Afghanistan may have a slight edge due to their spin strength. They aim to frustrate New Zealand, who will hope to perform well.
FAQs – Pitch Report for MA Chidambaram Stadium
What is the pitch report for MA Chidambaram Stadium?
The MA Chidambaram Stadium generally benefits spinners who can utilize grip and variation. Afghanistan’s spin unit is likely to challenge opposing batters. The pitch promises assistance from the start, making it difficult for batters and rewarding disciplined bowlers.
What is NZ and AFG’s record at the MA Chidambaram Stadium?
This will be the first encounter between New Zealand and Afghanistan at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. New Zealand has played once here, defeating India, while Afghanistan will be making their debut at this venue.
