GUYANA: Afghanistan bowlers outclassed New Zealand as they down Kiwis for just 75 from 15.2 overs, claiming an 84-run victory in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 at the Providence Stadium, Guyana on Friday.
Earlier, New Zealand opted to field first after winning the toss against Afghanistan.
Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan took four for 17 in his team’s second decisive victory in the tournament claiming a record of best number by any captain in the T20 World Cup history.
In their first match, the blue Tigers defeated Uganda by 125 runs at the same venue on Tuesday and are on top of Group C.
After New Zealand captain Kane Williamson elected to field first, Afghanistan posted a fighting total of 159 runs for six in their 20 overs, with openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz (80) and Ibrahim Zadrau (44) putting on 103 for the first wicket from 14.3 overs.
Azmatullah Omarzai contributed with a brisk 23 off 13 balls. Captain Rashid Khan added 6 runs, Karim Janat scored 1, while Mohammad Nabi and Gulbadin Naib were out for ducks. For New Zealand, Matt Henry and Trent Boult each claimed 2 wickets and Lockie Ferguson took 1.
To chase, the Kiwis crumbled at the start of the inning when they lost Finn Allen to the first ball. He was bowled leg stump by a ball from Fazalhaq Farooqi that jagged back off the seam.
His opening partner Devon Conway followed for eight and Daryl Mitchell was caught behind for five leaving New Zealand at a parlous 28 for three. Glenn Phillips managed 18 runs and Matt Henry added 12, but no other batsman reached double figures.
Skipper Rashid Khan took the ball and struck in his first over, dismissing Mark Chapman for four and Michael Bracewell with his next delivery.
He then dismissed his opposite number, Williamson caught at slip, and New Zealand were finally all out after 15.2 overs for their second-lowest T20 score ever.
Afghanistan’s bowling attack was spearheaded by Rashid Khan and Fazalhaq Farooqi, who both took 4 wickets each, with Mohammad Nabi chipping in with 2 wickets.
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