Afghanistan Selects Spin-Heavy Team, Sends New Zealand to Field

In a strategic decision at the T20 World Cup 2026, Afghanistan’s captain Rashid Khan won the toss and decided to bat first against New Zealand. This match took place in Chennai, starting at 11 am. The conditions did not favor dew, making the decision to bat more appealing for the Afghan side.

Afghanistan’s Spin-Heavy Selection

Afghanistan fielded a spin-heavy lineup that featured three spinners: Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, and Mohammad Nabi. Notably absent was left-arm wristspinner Noor Ahmad, who has performed well in the Indian Premier League (IPL) with Chennai Super Kings. Replacing the injured Naveen-ul-Haq, Ziaur Rahman Sharifi joined the team as a frontline seamer alongside Fazalhaq Farooqi. Additionally, seam-bowling allrounders Azmatullah Omarzai and Gulbadin Naib provided further support.

New Zealand’s Pace-Focused Strategy

On the other hand, New Zealand opted for a pace-heavy attack against the grass-covered surface at Chepauk. Their captain, Mitchell Santner, was the only specialist spinner included in the squad. Ish Sodhi did not make the cut, shifting the focus to seam bowlers Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, and Jacob Duffy. Rachin Ravindra, returning from an illness, filled the No. 3 spot, while Michael Bracewell was sidelined due to a calf injury. The opening partnership featured Finn Allen, who recovered from a shoulder issue, and Tim Seifert.

Match Conditions and Venue

The Chepauk stadium recently underwent significant renovations, including the relaying of its outfield. However, the pitches remained unchanged. The venue last hosted a competitive game in April 2025, leading to uncertainty regarding current playing conditions. As noted by CSK, teams have struggled to assess the surfaces accurately in recent matches.

Starting Lineups

• Afghanistan:
  • Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk)
  • Ibrahim Zadran
  • Sediqullah Atal
  • Darwish Rasooli
  • Azmatullah Omarzai
  • Gulbadin Naib
  • Mohammad Nabi
  • Rashid Khan (capt)
  • Fazalhaq Farooqi
  • Mujeeb Ur Rahman
  • Ziaur Rahman Sharifi
• New Zealand:
  • Finn Allen
  • Tim Seifert (wk)
  • Rachin Ravindra
  • Glenn Phillips
  • Mark Chapman
  • Daryl Mitchell
  • Mitchell Santner (capt)
  • Jimmy Neesham
  • Matt Henry
  • Lockie Ferguson
  • Jacob Duffy

As the game unfolds, the contrast in team strategies will be captivating. Afghanistan’s choice to bat first against New Zealand’s pace-heavy attack sets the stage for an exciting contest in Chennai.