New Zealand and Afghanistan are all set to lock horns in Match 4 of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, with the action shifting to the spin-friendly MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai on Sunday, February 8.
This is not just another group-stage fixture — it’s a crucial Group D clash where early momentum could decide who stays alive in the so-called “Group of Death”, which also features South Africa.
New Zealand will be desperate to avoid a repeat of 2024, when Afghanistan stunned them and sent shockwaves through the tournament. Meanwhile, Rashid Khan’s men arrive with confidence, armed with a lethal spin attack tailor-made for Chennai conditions.
If you’re wondering where to watch NZ vs AFG live, here are all the broadcast, streaming, pitch, and weather details you need.
NZ vs AFG Match Details – T20 World Cup 2026
- Match: New Zealand vs Afghanistan, Match 4
- Tournament: ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026
- Date: Sunday, February 8, 2026
- Venue: MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
- Start Time: 11:00 AM IST
- Toss Time: 10:30 AM IST
New Zealand vs Afghanistan Live Telecast in India
Cricket fans in India can watch the match live on television through the official broadcasters:
TV Channels: Star Sports Network
Star Sports will provide full coverage with pre-match build-up, live action, and post-match analysis.
NZ vs AFG Live Streaming Online (OTT Details)
For viewers who prefer watching online, the match will also be available on OTT platforms:
Live Streaming Platform: JioHotstar App & Website
Fans can stream the match live on mobile, laptop, or smart TV through the JioHotstar service.
NZ vs AFG Weather Report – Chennai Forecast
The weather in Chennai is expected to remain stable for this big clash.
- Temperature: Around 29–31°C
- Conditions: Warm and partly cloudy
- Rain Chances: Very low
- Humidity: Moderate to high
There could be a little dew later, but overall, no major weather interruptions are expected — meaning it should be a full uninterrupted contest.
NZ vs AFG Pitch Report – MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
The Chepauk surface is known for testing batters, especially as the match progresses.
Expect:
- A dry, slow wicket
- Assistance for spinners in middle overs
- Grip and turn for quality tweakers
Batting may be easier early on, but once the pitch slows down, stroke-making becomes tricky. Teams batting first could look to post a competitive total before spin takes control.
NZ vs AFG Head-to-Head Record
New Zealand and Afghanistan have only faced each other twice in T20Is:
- Matches Played: 2
- New Zealand Wins: 1
- Afghanistan Wins: 1
So, the rivalry is perfectly balanced heading into this high-pressure World Cup encounter.
NZ vs AFG Likely Playing XIs
New Zealand Probable XI
Finn Allen, Tim Seifert (wk), Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner (c), Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry/Kyle Jamieson
Afghanistan Probable XI
Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan (c), Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveen Ul Haq/Mujeeb Ur Rahman
Squads at a Glance
New Zealand Squad
Mitchell Santner (c), Devon Conway, Tim Seifert, Finn Allen, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell, Mark Chapman, Kyle Jamieson, Ish Sodhi, Lockie Ferguson, Jacob Duffy, James Neesham, Matt Henry, Michael Bracewell
Afghanistan Squad
Rashid Khan (c), Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Gulbadin Naib, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Noor Ahmad, Naveen-ul-Haq, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Mohammad Ishaq, Ziaur Rahman Sharifi, Abdullah Ahmadzai
What’s at Stake?
With South Africa also in Group D, this match could shape the entire qualification race. Afghanistan’s spinners have the conditions on their side, while New Zealand’s experienced core will be eager to start strong and erase the memories of 2024.
A blockbuster contest awaits in Chennai.
FAQs – NZ vs AFG Live Streaming
Q1. Where can I watch NZ vs AFG live in India?
Star Sports Network will telecast the match live.
Q2. Where can I stream NZ vs Afghanistan online?
The match will be live streamed on JioHotstar app and website.
Q3. What time does NZ vs AFG match start?
The match begins at 11:00 AM IST, toss at 10:30 AM IST.
Q4. Will rain affect the match in Chennai?
No, the forecast suggests a dry day with minimal rain chances.
Q5. Is the Chennai pitch spin-friendly?
Yes, Chepauk traditionally supports spinners, especially in middle overs.
