CHENNAI: New Zealand secured their place in the Super Eight stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 with a commanding eight-wicket victory over Canada at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Tuesday, registering their third win of the group phase.
Set a target of 174, the Black Caps completed the chase in just 15.1 overs, losing only two wickets. A dominant stand between Glenn Phillips and Rachin Ravindra ensured there were no late complications.
New Zealand began steadily, with Tim Seifert and Finn Allen putting on 30 for the opening wicket. However, both openers departed in quick succession — Seifert fell to Saad Bin Zafar for six, while Dillon Heyliger dismissed Allen after a brisk 21 off eight balls.
Ravindra and Phillips then took control, combining caution with calculated aggression. Their century partnership put the result beyond doubt. Phillips remained unbeaten on 76 from 36 balls, striking four fours and six sixes, while Ravindra made 59 off 39 deliveries, hitting four boundaries and three maximums.
Earlier, Canada made an impressive start after choosing to bat. Yuvraj Samra and captain Dilpreet Bajwa built a strong platform with a fluent opening stand. Bajwa contributed 36 before being dismissed in the 14th over, but Samra continued to dominate.
The right-hander compiled a superb 110 off 65 balls, including 11 fours, registering his maiden T20I century. Canada added useful runs late on despite losing wickets in the closing overs, finishing on a competitive 173.
However, New Zealand’s powerful reply ensured a comfortable win and confirmed their progression to the next round.
