New Zealand crushed Canada 176/2 to secure their Super Eight spot in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 at Chennai. The Kiwis claimed an 8-wicket victory, bouncing back strongly after their loss to South Africa in the previous round.
While New Zealand emerged victorious, Canada's 19-year-old Yuvraj Samra delivered a performance that will be remembered for years. Samra powered to his first international century, becoming the youngest man to hit a hundred in a T20 or ODI World Cup. The opener finished on 110 off 65 balls, featuring 11 fours and 6 sixes—a stunning display that lifted Canada to 173/4.
New Zealand stumbled early with both openers falling inside the first four overs, but Glenn Phillips and Rachin Ravindra steadied the ship and steered the team to victory with 176/2 in 15.1 overs. Phillips reached his fifty in just 22 deliveries, the quickest fifty for New Zealand in T20 World Cups since 2007, continuing his impressive tournament form with aggressive ball-striking.
Daryl Mitchell captained New Zealand in place of Mitchell Santner, who fell ill. Despite the disruption, the Kiwis maintained their composure and clinched a crucial win. New Zealand's victory secured their spot in the next stage with South Africa. For more T20 World Cup action, check out the latest updates from other group matches.