Afghanistan Chooses to Bat First Against New Zealand in T20 World Cup
In a highly anticipated match at the T20 World Cup, Afghanistan won the toss and chose to bat first against New Zealand on February 8, 2026. This match is significant, as it takes place in Chennai, India, and falls within a highly competitive Group D. This group also includes last year’s finalist, South Africa, as well as the associate teams Canada and the United Arab Emirates.
Context of the Match
This encounter is the first international clash between Afghanistan and New Zealand since Afghanistan secured a memorable 84-run victory at the 2024 T20 World Cup. Both teams face the challenge of advancing from what is being referred to as the “group of death,” with only two teams able to move forward to the Super 8 stage.
Team Strengths and Player Highlights
- Afghanistan: The team is at full strength and regarded as favorites. Captain Rashid Khan is just four wickets shy of reaching a milestone of 700 T20 wickets.
- New Zealand: The team, having spent a month in India, has faced various injuries and illness among its players. Captain Mitchell Santner expressed hope that the grass on the pitch will aid the pace attack comprising Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, and Jacob Duffy.
Rashid Khan emphasized the importance of a strong bowling lineup and the need to play smart cricket during ICC events. His leadership has been crucial, particularly with the spin-friendly conditions expected later in the game.
Match Line-ups
Afghanistan’s Squad
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz
- Ibrahim Zadran
- Sediqullah Atal
- Darwish Rasooli
- Azmatullah Omarzai
- Gulbadin Naib
- Mohammad Nabi
- Rashid Khan (captain)
- Fazalhaq Farooqi
- Ziaur Rahman
- Mujahed Ur Rahman
New Zealand’s Squad
- Finn Allen
- Tim Seifert
- Rachin Ravindra
- Glenn Phillips
- Mark Chapman
- Daryl Mitchell
- Mitchell Santner (captain)
- James Neesham
- Matt Henry
- Lockie Ferguson
- Jacob Duffy
As both teams prepare for the match, the excitement builds, with the recent performances in the tournament adding to the stakes for this essential group stage game at the T20 World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
