T20 WC: New Zealand seek all-round improvement vs Afghanistan

New Zealand vs Afghanistan Live Score, T20 World Cup 2026: An under-par New Zealand will look to rediscover their explosive brand of cricket when they take on a tricky Afghanistan in the opening Group D match of the ICC T20 World Cup on Sunday.

The Kiwis endured an unsettled build-up to the tournament, suffering a 1-4 series defeat against India, and will be wary of an Afghanistan side that has proven its credentials in the shortest format. While the inclusion of Tim Seifert and Finn Allen has added firepower at the top, New Zealand will need more consistent contributions from Rachin Ravindra, Mark Chapman and Devon Conway to fully capitalise on those starts.

The lack of momentum through the middle order proved a major concern during the India series, with New Zealand struggling to accelerate both while setting targets and during chases. Another such lapse could prove costly in a group that also features South Africa, making a strong start imperative for Mitchell Santner’s men.

The bowlers, too, will be keen to return to their economical best after conceding heavily against India’s aggressive batting line-up. Despite featuring in only one match, Lockie Ferguson underlined his value with raw pace and an expanded set of variations, and he will be expected to lead the attack alongside Santner and leg-spinner Ish Sodhi.

Containing Afghanistan, however, will be no easy task. The side arrives on the back of a commanding series win over the West Indies and boasts depth across the XI, with multiple players capable of turning a game on its head.

Rashid Khan remains the biggest threat despite the mystery around him diminishing over the years. Balancing leadership responsibilities with his role as a strike bowler will be a key challenge, and support from Mujeeb ur Rahman and Noor Ahmad will be vital.

With the Chepauk pitch expected to aid spinners in the absence of dew during the morning start, both teams could lean heavily on their slow bowlers. Afghanistan’s batting, led by Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran and the consistent Sediqullah Atal, promises a compelling contest.

Teams (from):

New Zealand: 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.

Afghanistan: 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.