Record Chase Unfolds
In a stunning display of batting prowess, New Zealand achieved a remarkable 10-wicket victory against the United Arab Emirates in the T20 World Cup 2026.
Chasing a challenging total of 174 runs, openers Tim Seifert and Finn Allen remained invincible, guiding their team to the target with an astounding 28 balls still in hand. Seifert was particularly destructive, smashing an unbeaten 89 off just 42 deliveries, while Allen contributed a brilliant 84 not out from 50 balls. Their unbroken 175-run partnership for the first wicket not only secured a comfortable win but also etched their names in the T20 World Cup history books as the highest partnership for any wicket in the tournament's annals. This dominant performance solidified New Zealand's unbeaten streak in the tournament, marking their second consecutive win.
Opening Blitzkrieg
The Chennai pitch witnessed an electrifying start from the New Zealand openers as they relentlessly pursued the target set by the UAE. From the second over, the Black Caps shifted gears, maintaining an aggressive tempo throughout the innings. The powerplay overs were particularly devastating, with Seifert and Allen amassing a formidable 78 runs without losing a wicket, including a remarkable 20 runs in the sixth over alone. This early onslaught effectively nullified any potential for an upset by the UAE, showcasing New Zealand's intent to seize control of the match decisively and dampen any hopes of a comeback from their opponents.
UAE's Spirited Innings
Earlier in the day, the United Arab Emirates captain Muhammad Waseem won the toss and opted to bat first, setting a competitive total of 173 for 6 in their 20 overs. Despite an early setback with the dismissal of Aryansh Sharma, the UAE batsmen displayed resilience. Captain Waseem and Alishan Sharafu steadied the ship, forming a crucial 107-run partnership for the second wicket, the second-highest for the UAE in T20Is. Sharafu was instrumental in relieving pressure, scoring a quickfire 55 off 47 balls, adorned with five boundaries and two sixes. Waseem continued his impressive form, carrying his bat through the innings to remain unbeaten on 66 from 45 deliveries, featuring four fours and three sixes. Mayank Kumar also provided a valuable cameo, adding 21 runs.
Middle-Overs Fightback
New Zealand's bowlers managed to peg back the UAE's momentum in the middle overs with a couple of quick wickets. Captain Mitchell Santner struck by dismissing the dangerous Alishan Sharafu, and Glenn Phillips followed up by removing Harshit Kaushik within a span of just 10 balls and 5 runs, which briefly reduced the UAE to 124 for 3. Despite this temporary setback, UAE captain Muhammad Waseem continued to anchor the innings effectively, ensuring his team posted a respectable total. Matt Henry concluded the UAE's innings strongly, taking two wickets on the final two deliveries, while Jacob Duffy, Santner, Lockie Ferguson, and Phillips each contributed a wicket.
Next Fixtures Ahead
Following this commanding victory, New Zealand is set to face South Africa in their next Group D match, scheduled to take place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on February 14th. Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates will look to bounce back when they take on Canada at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi on February 13th. Both teams will be aiming to continue their campaigns with strong performances in their upcoming encounters.
