Tim Seifert struck a commanding 65 off 42 balls as New Zealand completed their highest-ever chase in T20 World Cup history, defeating Afghanistan by five wickets in Chennai. Chasing 183, New Zealand recovered from early blows through a vital 74-run stand between Seifert and Glenn Phillips, who made 42.
Despite Afghanistan’s spin pressure, Seifert anchored the innings before Daryl Mitchell and skipper Mitchell Santner guided the Black Caps home with 13 balls to spare.
Earlier, Gulbadin Naib’s 63 helped Afghanistan post 182/6, but New Zealand’s composed batting ensured a comfortable Group-stage victory.