New Zealand’s hopes in the T20 World Cup 2024 were dashed after Afghanistan’s emphatic seven-wicket victory over Papua New Guinea (PNG) in Match 29 of the tournament. This win propelled Afghanistan into the Super 8 stage while eliminating the Kiwis from the competition.
Opting to bowl first, Afghanistan dominated PNG, restricting them to a meager 95 runs in 19.5 overs. The Afghan bowlers put on a stellar performance, starting with Fazalhaq Farooqi, who claimed three wickets for 16 runs. Farooqi’s early breakthroughs included the dismissals of Lega Siaka and Sese Bau for golden ducks in consecutive deliveries. Naveen ul Haq added to PNG’s woes by picking up two wickets for just four runs in his 2.5 overs. The PNG innings were further marred by four run-outs, with their captain Assad Vala departing early for just 3 runs. Wicketkeeper Kiplin Dogra’s effort to stabilize PNG’s innings with his 27 off 32 balls was cut short by Noor Ahmad, who trapped him in front of the stumps in the 18th over. PNG’s dismal batting performance saw them bowled out for 95, setting a modest target for Afghanistan.
In response, Afghanistan faced early setbacks as they lost openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz (11 off 7) and Ibrahim Zadran (0 off 7) with just 22 runs on the board. Azmatullah Omarzai also fell cheaply, scoring 13 off 18 balls, leaving Afghanistan at a precarious 55/3. However, Gulbadin Naib (49* off 36) and Mohammad Nabi (16* off 23) steadied the ship. Their unbroken partnership guided Afghanistan to victory in 15.1 overs, securing a win by seven wickets and a spot in the Super 8 stage.
This result was a significant blow to New Zealand, who had a disappointing tournament run. The Kane Williamson-led side had already suffered a heavy 84-run defeat to Afghanistan in their opening match. They then endured a close 13-run loss to the West Indies, putting them on the brink of elimination. Currently, New Zealand sits at the bottom of Group C with a net run rate of -2.425. Despite their poor performance, they aim to finish the tournament on a high note with their remaining matches against Uganda and PNG. The Afghanistan vs. PNG match highlighted the Afghan team’s resilience and skill, which saw them overcome early hurdles to clinch a crucial win. Their qualification for the Super 8 stages underscores their growing prowess in international cricket.
New Zealand, semi-finalists in the previous edition, will now have to regroup and reassess their strategies for future tournaments. The early exit is a significant setback for the team, known for its competitive spirit and consistency in global tournaments. As the T20 World Cup 2024 progresses, the focus now shifts to the Super 8 stages, where Afghanistan will look to continue their impressive form. The tournament promises more excitement and competitive cricket as teams vie for the coveted title.