Afghanistan thrash New Zealand by 84 Runs in T20 World Cup 2024

Afghanistan dominated New Zealand by 84 runs in their T20 World Cup 2024 clash in Guyana on Saturday. After winning the toss and opting to bat, Afghanistan capitalized on New Zealand’s lackluster fielding, which featured multiple missed opportunities including a stumping, a run-out by wicketkeeper Devon Conway, and a dropped catch.

Afghan openers started cautiously, reaching 55/0 by the halfway mark before accelerating. Rahmanullah Gurbaz scored his second half-century of the tournament, anchoring the innings with a robust 80 off 56 balls, earning him Player of the Match honors. Ibrahim Zadran contributed with a steady 44 off 41 balls, while Azmatullah Omarzai's quickfire 22 off 13 deliveries added crucial runs.

Despite a late fightback from New Zealand, with Lockie Ferguson taking three key wickets, Afghanistan managed to post a competitive total of 160. The Kiwis restricted Afghanistan to just three runs in the final over.

New Zealand’s batting, however, faltered early. Fazalhaq Farooqi was sensational, taking four wickets for 17 runs in 3.2 overs, including the crucial first-ball dismissal of Finn Allen and the scalps of Conway and Mitchell. Rashid Khan also shone, dismissing Kane Williamson with his first ball and taking two more wickets in quick succession, finishing with figures of 17/4 from his four overs.

Glenn Phillips’ 18 off 18 balls was the highest score for New Zealand, as they were bowled out for a meager 75 in 15.2 overs. Afghanistan’s comprehensive performance secured them a convincing victory over New Zealand.