New Zealand secured their place in the Super 8 stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup with a commanding eight-wicket victory over Canada at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chepauk, Chennai.
The result came despite a remarkable innings from 19-year-old Canadian batter Yuvraj Samra, who struck 110 from 65 balls. It was the highest individual score of the ongoing edition. He also became the youngest batter to register a century in the 19-year history of the T20 World Cup and the first from an Associate nation to reach three figures in the competition.
After Canada elected to bat, Samra and captain Dilpreet Bajwa laid a solid foundation with a 116-run opening stand. Bajwa made 36, while Navneet Dhaliwal added 10. Canada closed on 173 for four in their 20 overs.
Matt Henry, Jacob Duffy, Kyle Jamieson and James Neesham claimed a wicket apiece.
In reply, New Zealand chased down the 174-run target in 15.1 overs. Tim Seifert and Finn Allen fell early, but Rachin Ravindra and Glenn Phillips turned the match decisively.
Ravindra remained unbeaten on 59 from 39 balls, while Phillips struck 76 not out from 36 deliveries. Their unbroken partnership ensured New Zealand finished on 176 for two, sealing progression to the next stage with authority.
