New Zealand opened their T20 World Cup campaign with a five-wicket victory over Afghanistan in Chennai on Sunday, chasing down a target of 183 with 13 balls to spare.
Afghanistan posted 182 for six after being sent in, built around a brisk 63 off 35 balls from Gulbadin Naib, who struck four sixes and three fours. Sediqullah Atal added 29, while Mohammad Nabi finished unbeaten on 10 as Afghanistan maintained a strong run rate through the middle overs.
New Zealand’s reply was anchored by wicketkeeper Tim Seifert, who top-scored with 65 off 42 balls, including seven fours and three sixes. Glenn Phillips contributed 42 from 25 deliveries, and Mark Chapman made 28 as New Zealand recovered from early losses to keep the chase on track.
Afghanistan struck early through Mujeeb Ur Rahman, who took two wickets, but could not contain New Zealand’s middle order. Daryl Mitchell and captain Mitchell Santner were both unbeaten at the finish, guiding New Zealand to 183 for five in 17.5 overs.
The match marked the first outing for both teams in the tournament’s group stage.
