Afghanistan has won the toss and elected to bat against New Zealand in the T20 World Cup on Sunday. Both teams are in Group D, which includes South Africa, Canada, and the United Arab Emirates. Only two teams will advance to the Super 8 stage. This is their first international match since Afghanistan's 84-run victory over New Zealand at the 2024 T20 World Cup. New Zealand faced injuries and illness in the lead up to the tournament, while Afghanistan is at full strength. Captain Rashid Khan needs four wickets to reach 700 T20 wickets. New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner hopes the grass will aid his three seamers.