What is New Zealand's record at MA Chidambaram Stadium in T20Is?

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is currently underway, featuring 20 teams after weeks of intense preparation. Co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, the tournament runs from February 7 to March 8, promising a month of high-quality and competitive cricket. New Zealand kicked off their campaign against Afghanistan on February 8 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai.

The Kiwis are placed in Group D, alongside Afghanistan, United Arab Emirates, South Africa, and Canada. Coming into the World Cup on the back of a disappointing 4-1 T20I series loss to India, New Zealand were eager to bounce back at the marquee event. They began on a positive note with a win over Afghanistan and will now face the United Arab Emirates in their second group-stage fixture.

What is New Zealand’s record at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in T20Is?

New Zealand have played three T20Is at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, and their outings at the venue have been particularly memorable. Their first appearance came during the 2012 tour of India, when the visitors edged past the hosts by a narrow one-run margin in the second T20I.

Batting first, the Black Caps posted a competitive 167/5 in their 20 overs. Brendon McCullum was the standout performer, producing a scintillating 91 off 55 deliveries, an innings studded with 11 fours and three sixes at a strike rate of 165.45. For India, Irfan Pathan was the pick of the bowlers, returning impressive figures of 3/31.

In reply, India fell agonisingly short, finishing on 166/4. Virat Kohli led the charge with a fluent 70 off 41 balls, striking 10 fours and a six. Despite valuable contributions from Yuvraj Singh, Suresh Raina, and MS Dhoni, the hosts were unable to cross the line. Kyle Mills and James Franklin were the standout bowlers for New Zealand, claiming two wickets apiece.

New Zealand’s most recent appearance at the venue came during the T20 World Cup 2026, where they secured a convincing win over Afghanistan, powered by Tim Seifert’s impressive knock and a disciplined collective bowling effort. They also registered another dominant victory in the tournament, chasing down 174 against the UAE without losing a wicket.