New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner commended the United Arab Emirates’ batting performance, attributing smart execution to his team’s 10-wicket win in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 in Chennai. Tim Seifert and Finn Allen set a world record with a 175-run opening partnership, leading New Zealand to a dominant victory over UAE in a Group C match. Santner acknowledged UAE’s adaptability to the conditions and their competitive total, emphasizing the flat wicket’s nature.
Santner noted that New Zealand initially considered batting first but adjusted their strategy upon realizing the pitch’s quality. He praised the UAE’s shot selection and pace usage while crediting his bowlers for an improved performance. The captain highlighted the strategic utilization of ground dimensions, particularly the larger boundary, and commended the opening pair for their blend of power hitting and rotation of strike.
Seifert and Allen’s aggressive batting propelled New Zealand to a rapid start, scoring 78 runs in the Power-play and maintaining momentum throughout. Both batsmen quickly reached their half-centuries, with Allen scoring 84 off 50 balls and Seifert contributing 89 off 42 balls. Santner lauded their smart shot selection and ability to exploit the field dimensions effectively, making the chase comfortable for New Zealand.
Looking ahead, Santner expressed readiness for a crucial match against South Africa in Ahmedabad, emphasizing the importance of securing points. With a focus on the upcoming challenge, New Zealand aims to continue their winning momentum in the tournament. The team’s next encounter is against South Africa in Ahmedabad on Saturday.
