New Zealand Posts Record Partnership as They Crush United Arab Emirates in T20 World Cup
In an electrifying display at the M. Chinnaswamy Ganguly Stadium in Chennai, Finn Allen and Tim Seifert orchestrated a remarkable batting performance to set a new record for the longest partnership in any wicket at a T20 World Cup. The duo managed to score 175 runs off just over 16 overs, finishing their innings with almost five overs to spare as New Zealand sealed a victory with 10 wickets remaining against United Arab Emirates (UAE).
New Zealand’s chase of 173 for six required an audacious display from the opening pair. Seifert came in at number three and scored a determined 89 not out, while Allen made his arrival count by scoring 84 off only seven deliveries into the powerplay phase. Together they struck an unbroken century stand within just eight overs.
Their partnership dominated early innings of the game as they smashed the UAE’s bowling all over the park in their first six overs, striking a thrilling 78 runs from such short boundaries. Allen and Seifert’s combination saw them score at a punishing strike rate of nearly four an over during this period.
Seifert’s contribution didn’t go unnoticed; he launched three maximums and hit a dozen fours as the UAE bowlers struggled to contain him in the powerplay. He scored his second boundary after only two deliveries, showing the kind of aggression that had not been seen in previous World Cup matches. Allen chipped in with five sixes and five boundaries.
Despite their formidable partnership, Seifert’s performance was overshadowed by New Zealand’s captain, Finn Allen. The 30-year-old put on a show at number three with his unbeaten 84 off only seven deliveries. He showcased the kind of power hitting that had kept opponents guessing all tournament long.
Allen’s strike rate was almost as brisk as Seifert’s—racking up runs at an alarming pace during the powerplay, despite scoring more fours than sixes. His aggressive shots and ability to carry his bat through difficult moments played a pivotal role in driving New Zealand towards their victory.
The UAE’s 173 for six largely stemmed from captain Muhammad Waseem’s impressive performance, which included a well-set half-century of 66 not out. With the support of Alishan Sharafu (50) and fellow batsman Saeed Akmal who scored 32 off just 14 deliveries before being trapped by Mark Chapman, Waseem was pivotal in maintaining their chase.
While Seifert’s partnership with Allen set a new World Cup record for any wicket, the UAE’s batting struggled to compete once they lost their second-wicket stand. Sharafu’s slog-sweep allowed Daryl Mitchell of New Zealand to execute the final dismissal at an opportune moment. The 31-year-old Waseem hit four boundaries and three sixes during his 45 deliveries before being dismissed.
Seifert’s record-breaking partnership didn’t go unnoticed; he took the spotlight as player of the match, explaining how the powerplay phase had allowed them to take control of the game. He highlighted that every World Cup game would be different and that adapting to varying conditions was crucial for success.
“No, I didn’t know we broke a world record,” Seifert admitted modestly. “I’m not much of a stats guy; however, it feels good knowing that our team can adapt and perform in any scenario.”
The UAE’s defeat marks the latest in their disappointing campaign at this year’s T20 World Cup. As they look towards future matches, Waseem expressed his pride in playing alongside Seifert and Allen as an integral part of a side striving for improvement.
Allen emphasized that consistent preparation and adaptability would be key to New Zealand maintaining their position among the tournament favorites: “We’re trying our best every day and I’m glad we can continue doing so. Every team has its moments, but in this competition, everyone needs to stay focused.”
Despite losing against UAE, Seifert remained optimistic about his side’s prospects for the rest of the tournament. He pointed out that individual performances like these could define their success going forward.
“Hopefully, it will be a good learning experience,” Seifert said, adding with a smile, “And if there are more records to break in World Cups ahead… we’ll see!”