New Zealand vs Afghanistan: New Zealand’s five-wicket win over Afghanistan in their opening match of the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup in Chennai sparked a flurry of reactions online, with fans dissecting everything from the pitch conditions to Afghanistan’s much-debated bowling strategy.
Chasing 183, New Zealand wrapped up the contest in 17.5 overs with Daryl Mitchell (25 off 14) and Mitchell Santner (17 off 8) unbeaten. While the chase got off to a jittery early start, social media users were quick to note how comfortably the Kiwis recovered.
“Unlucky Afghanistan. Absolutely one sided game! Despite losing two quick wickets early on New Zealand looked the easier chase and finished the game with ease.”
Much of the online praise focused on Tim Seifert, whose 65 off 42 balls, including seven fours and three sixes, anchored the chase and decisively moved the pace. Fans also singled out Glenn Phillips for his aggressive 42 off 25 deliveries that kept the pressure on Afghanistan.
Earlier in the match, Afghanistan posted a competitive 182/6, powered by Gulbadin Naib’s 63. However, netizens felt that the total fell short on a surface that didn’t offer much help with spin — a recurring theme across the timelines.
One terse post read: “NEW ZEALAND THRASH AFGHANISTAN, JUST 18 TRANSFER DOWN 183! No spin friendly track, no party for Afghanistan.”
As the chase unfolded, Afghanistan’s bowling selection and execution came under sharp scrutiny. While Mujeeb Ur Rahman picked up two wickets, several fans felt that the attack failed to live up to its reputation on a Chennai pitch that played truer than expected.
Another user summed it up by saying: “Impressive win for NZ. Despite losing two wickets in a row at the start, they confidently chased down a tough target. Afghanistan are always a threat but their bowling didn’t quite live up to their reputation in defending 182.”
Earlier reactions during the match reflected much more tension, with fans predicting a close finish and praising Lockie Ferguson’s early double strike. However, once New Zealand settled in, the online mood definitely turned in their favour.
The large turnout at the M Chidambaram Stadium – despite being a non-Indian stadium – also drew praise and reinforced Chennai’s reputation as a venue that embraces high-quality cricket regardless of the teams involved.
As the tournament progresses, the match served as an early reminder to Afghanistan that conditions and adaptability matter as much as reputation, while New Zealand’s composed chase set expectations high – both on the field and on social media.