In a stunning display of batting dominance, New Zealand smashed the United Arab Emirates (UAE) by 10 wickets in Chennai on Tuesday, setting a new T20 World Cup partnership record. Finn Allen and Tim Seifert powered the Kiwis with an unbeaten 175-run opening stand, surpassing the previous record of 170 set by England’s Alex Hales and Jos Buttler against India in 2022.
Chasing a competitive 173-6 posted by the UAE, Allen remained not out on 84 while Seifert finished 89*. The duo attacked the UAE bowlers from the start, scoring 78 runs in the first six-over powerplay and reaching their century stand in just 8.3 overs. Seifert struck three towering sixes and 12 fours, while Allen contributed five sixes and five boundaries, showcasing aggressive yet controlled stroke play.
Seifert, named Player of the Match, highlighted the importance of adapting to different conditions in a World Cup. “The main thing is that we’re playing how we want to play, especially putting pressure on the bowlers in the powerplay,” he said. “Every game’s a bit different, every ground’s a bit different. In a World Cup, you’ve got to adjust to conditions.” The wicketkeeper-batsman admitted he hadn’t realized the pair had broken the World Cup record. “I’m not much of a stats guy, but we’ll happily take it,” he added.
The UAE’s innings was largely built on captain Muhammad Waseem’s 66 not out. Waseem and Alishan Sharafu shared a 107-run partnership for the second wicket, giving the UAE hope. However, New Zealand’s fielding brilliance intervened when Mark Chapman pulled off a spectacular save near the boundary, relaying the ball to Daryl Mitchell to dismiss Sharafu.
The 31-year-old Waseem, one of only three UAE players from their 2022 T20 World Cup squad, struck four fours and three sixes in his 45-ball innings. Despite his efforts, the UAE’s total proved insufficient against the relentless opening pair of Allen and Seifert, who dominated the chase from ball one.
With this victory, New Zealand not only secured a comprehensive win but also etched their names in T20 World Cup history. Their record-breaking partnership demonstrates the depth and firepower of the Kiwi batting lineup, setting a strong tone for the rest of the tournament.
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