Record Samra Ton Overshadowed by Phillips and Ravindra as New Zealand March into Super Eights

A record-breaking century from Yuvraj Samra was not enough to stop New Zealand from storming into the Super Eights of the 2026 T20 World Cup, as Glenn Phillips and Rachin Ravindra chased down Canada’s 173 for 4 with eight wickets and 29 balls to spare in Chennai.

Samra lit up the evening with a dazzling 110 off 65 balls, the highest score by an Associate batter against a Full Member in men’s T20 World Cup history. At just 19 years and 141 days, he also became the youngest player to score a half-century in the tournament. Mixing elegant drives with fearless pulls, the left-hander dominated New Zealand’s attack, adding 116 for the opening stand with Dilpreet Bajwa, who made a steady 36.

With Lockie Ferguson absent and Mitchell Santner sidelined, New Zealand looked short of bite, and Samra capitalised. He reached his hundred in 58 balls and continued to find boundaries until falling in the final over, leaving Canada with what appeared a competitive total.

Canada struck early in the chase, removing Tim Seifert and Finn Allen inside four overs. But from 30 for 2, Phillips and Ravindra took complete control. Phillips was explosive, hammering 76 not out from 36 balls, bringing up his half-century in just 22 deliveries. Ravindra played the perfect foil, compiling a composed 59 not out off 39 balls.

Their unbroken 146-run stand off only 73 balls dismantled Canada’s hopes. Phillips’ clean striking and Ravindra’s calculated aggression ensured the target was reeled in comfortably, sealing New Zealand’s progression and rendering Samra’s heroic knock a bittersweet milestone.

Catch the match live updates, highlights, and full match coverage on CricRadio. Get fast, accurate, and ad-free updates throughout the game. Download the CricRadio app from the Play Store to stay connected. You can also get the live scores of cricket series directly on the CricRadio website for real-time coverage.