Chennai, Feb 10, 2026:
New Zealand registered a commanding 10-wicket victory over the United Arab Emirates in their opening Group D match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, thanks to a record-breaking opening partnership between Tim Seifert and Finn Allen.
Chasing a target of 174, the Kiwi openers made light work of the UAE bowling attack, sealing victory in just 15.2 overs without losing a wicket. Their unbeaten 174-run stand is the highest opening partnership in T20 World Cup history on any venue.
Seifert played a blistering knock of 89 not out from 42 balls, smashing 12 fours and three sixes. He brought up his half-century in just 23 deliveries. Allen complemented him perfectly, remaining unbeaten on 84 from 50 balls with five fours and five sixes. The duo put on 78 runs inside the powerplay, effectively deciding the contest early.
Earlier, UAE posted a competitive 173 for 6 after opting to bat first. Captain Mohammad Waseem led from the front with an unbeaten 66 off 45 balls, including four fours and three sixes. Despite losing an early wicket, UAE recovered through a solid 107-run partnership for the second wicket between Waseem and Alishan Sharafu.
Sharafu scored 55 off 47 balls, hitting five fours and two sixes, before being dismissed in the 15th over with the team total at 119 for 2. Waseem continued to anchor the innings, guiding UAE to a respectable total.
For New Zealand, Matt Henry was the pick of the bowlers, claiming two wickets for 37 runs.
The UAE, who did not qualify for the 2024 T20 World Cup, fielded a relatively inexperienced squad, with only three players from their 2022 World Cup lineup included this time. However, their effort with the bat was overshadowed by New Zealand’s explosive response, as the Kiwis extended their winning streak in the tournament.
