“It was less a chase and more a demonstration of modern T20 batting at its best”
New Zealand delivered one of the most dominant performances in T20 World Cup history with a 10-wicket win over the UAE in Chennai.
First, UAE batted and posted a strong 173/6 from 20 overs. It was their highest total in a Men’s T20 World Cup. Muhammad Waseem led with 66 not out, while Alishan Sharafu added 55. Together, they gave UAE hope.
However, New Zealand’s openers had other ideas. Finn Allen and Tim Seifert attacked from the start and never looked back. They built an unbeaten 175-run partnership and set a new T20 World Cup record.
Seifert finished on 89 not out from 42 balls. At the same time, Allen supported him with 84 not out from 50 balls, mixing power with placement.
In the end, New Zealand reached the target in just 15.2 overs without losing a wicket. With 28 balls to spare, the result was never in doubt.
Overall, the win lifted their net run rate and strengthened their place at the top of the group. It was a night that sent a clear message to the rest of the tournament.