Chennai, India - In a stunning display of power hitting, Tim Seifert and Finn Allen etched their names into the T20 World Cup record books, guiding New Zealand to a dominant 10-wicket victory over the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Tuesday. The Kiwi openers forged an unbeaten 175-run partnership, the highest for any wicket in the tournament's history, surpassing the previous record of 170 set by England's Alex Hales and Jos Buttler against India in 2022.

The match, held at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, saw New Zealand secure their second consecutive win in Group D. After UAE posted a competitive total of 173/6, thanks to a 107-run partnership between captain Muhammad Waseem (66*) and Alishan Sharafu (55), Seifert and Allen responded with a blistering assault.

Seifert, named Player of the Match, was the aggressor early on, dictating terms with clean striking and sharp shot selection. He finished with an unbeaten 89 off just 42 balls, including 12 fours and three sixes. Allen, initially playing a supportive role, shifted gears as the chase progressed, complementing Seifert's aggression with innovative ramp shots. Allen ended the match with 84 not out from 50 deliveries, smashing five fours and five sixes.

The New Zealand openers seized control during the powerplay, racing to 78/0, and never relinquished their grip. They punished anything short or over-pitched, ensuring the run rate never dipped. The UAE bowlers struggled to contain the onslaught, with Muhammad Rohid being the most expensive, conceding 51 runs in just 3.2 overs.

"Great start. We are playing how we want to play," said Seifert after the match. "Me and Allen putting pressure on the bowlers was key. Every ground is different, and you have to adapt. The surface was very good – it held a little in the first innings, but overall it was a great wicket. Finn batted very well.". Captain Mitchell Santner praised the pair's clarity and shot selection, adding, "It's nice to watch when you're in the middle order. The way those two bat together and strike the ball is impressive".

This record-breaking partnership also marked New Zealand's highest successful run chase in a T20 World Cup. Previously, their best chase was 167 against England in the 2021 semi-final. This victory has firmly placed New Zealand as a team to watch in the tournament, demonstrating their ability to chase down any total with their explosive batting lineup.