T20 World Cup 2026: Match 4, NZ vs AFG Match Prediction – Who will win today’s T20 World Cup match between New Zealand vs Afghanistan?

In the Match No. 4 of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, New Zealand (NZ) will be crossing swords with Afghanistan (AFG) in a Group D clash at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Sunday, February 8. 

New Zealand recently faced a 4-1 series loss against India and must be running a little low on confidence. However, what they gained from the five-match series against the Indians was the confidence to play on Indian turning tracks. If they can deploy that experience to good effect against the Afghans, who boast a spin-heavy attack, it could be a crucial factor for the upcoming contest.

Afghanistan, on the other hand, have had a strong preparation in the buildup to the twenty-team tournament and will be looking to bank on their unit, which has a mix of experience and youth. The Rashid Khan-led side is studded with good all-rounders, attacking batters, and dominant spinners, who can turn the game on its head at any moment.

NZ vs AFG: Match Details

MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai: Pitch Report

A pitch having the reputation of a rank turner is what is typically the scene at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. However, batters enjoy their time equally playing at this venue, and it has been witness to some thrilling contests between the bat and ball. Two out of the three T20Is played here have been won by the chasing teams, suggesting a strong indication for the captain winning the toss on Sunday.

NZ vs AFG: Head-to-Head T20I Record

NZ vs AFG: Predicted Playing XIs

New Zealand

Finn Allen, Devon Conway, Tim Seifert (wicketkeeper), Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (captain), Ish Sodhi, Lockie Ferguson, Jacob Duffy

Afghanistan

Sediqullah Atal, Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wicketkeeper), Ibrahim Zadran, Darwish Rasooli, Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan (captain), Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi

NZ vs AFG: Probable Best Performers

Probable Best Batter: Devon Conway

Devon Conway has loads of experience playing the Chepauk turf, as he has spent a considerable amount of time with Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League. In any case, he is a feared batter who can take the attack to the cleaners with a calm yet aggressive mindset to score runs. As an opener, Conway is expected to provide a good start to the BlackCaps.

Probable Best Bowler: Noor Ahmad

Like Conway, Noor Ahmad has also played a lot of cricket for the Chennai-based franchise and has been among the most successful bowlers at the venue in recent years. The slowness of the pitch can help Noor attract a lot of assistance with the ball. Noor is likely to use his variations and skills to provide important breakthroughs to Rashid & Co.

Today's Match Prediction: Chasing team to win the match