New Zealand vs Canada, T20 World Cup 2026: MA Chidambaram Stadium Pitch Report, T20I Stats and Records

New Zealand will look to bounce back from their recent setback and confirm their place in the Super Eight stage when they face Canada in their final Group D fixture of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 on Tuesday.

The Black Caps began their campaign confidently, registering convincing wins over Afghanistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Having arrived well-prepared for subcontinental conditions, they appeared settled and balanced. However, a defeat against a formidable South African side exposed cracks in their lineup, particularly in the bowling department.

Canada, meanwhile, enter the contest eager to salvage pride. The North American side has shown flashes of promise, particularly through their spin options, but has struggled with consistency and adapting to subcontinental conditions. Losses to South Africa and the UAE exposed their limited experience against top-tier opposition. To challenge New Zealand, Canada will need sharper bowling plans and improved execution in key moments.

MA Chidambaram Stadium Pitch Report

The MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai has traditionally been known as a paradise for spinners, but in recent times the surface has behaved more evenly. Turn is still very much part of the game, so slow bowlers should remain influential, yet the pitch is no longer one-sided. Batters who apply themselves and rotate strike can score freely once they settle in, while pacers can also get something out of the surface, especially with disciplined lines.

Overall, it looks set to offer a fair battle between bat and ball rather than heavily favouring one discipline. Because chasing on a wearing Chepauk pitch can become tricky as the game progresses, captains winning the toss may prefer to bat first, put runs on the board, and then let their bowlers – particularly the spinners – apply pressure in the second innings.

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MA Chidambaram Stadium T20I Stats and Records

• Total matches played: 14
• Matches won batting first: 8
• Matches won bowling first: 5
• Average 1st innings score: 162
• Average 2nd innings score: 136
• Highest total recorded: 199/4 (20 Overs) by USA vs Namibia
• Lowest total recorded: 80/10 (17.5 Overs) by Pakistan Women vs England Women
• Highest score chased: 183/5 (17.5 Overs) by New Zealand vs Afghanistan
• Lowest score defended: 103/8 (20 Overs) by West Indies Women vs Pakistan Women

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