Afghanistan advanced to the Super Eight, eliminating New Zealand from the men’s T20 World Cup 2024. In their previous match, they defeated PNG by seven wickets in Tarouba.
New-ball stints from quick bowlers Fazalhaq Farooqi and Naveen-ul-Haq set up their victory. Both ensured PNG lost five wickets during the powerplay. A total of four run-outs did not aid PNG’s case, and they were dismissed for 95.
Afghanistan cruised home with 29 balls to spare, with Gulbadin Naib remaining undefeated on 49. As a result, New Zealand failed to advance to the semi-finals of a men’s World Cup – ODI or T20 – for the first time since 2014. With six points and a net run rate of 4.230, Afghanistan leads Group C.
Naib Puts Out a Quick Fire From PNG
A target of 96 would not have concerned Afghanistan. In their first two games, Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran both scored centuries for the opening wicket. Gurbaz had hit 50s in those appearances. As a result, the middle order had spent little time in the middle. On Thursday, Afghanistan’s worst nightmares almost came true.
When Ibrahim was called out lbw, Semo Kamea, who had replaced vice-captain Charles Amini, came close to striking the opening ball. Khan used the DRS to his advantage, but three balls later lost his stumps when attempting to attack Kamea’s inswinger.
In the final over, fast bowler Alei Neo caught Gurbaz. He also rushed down to throw one over the line. PNG may have put greater pressure on Afghanistan. The wicketkeeper Kiplin Doriga had held Naib’s outside edge in the fifth over.
PNG were left to lament their chances on a surface with dry grass, which, as Daren Ganga noted in his pitch analysis, contributed to varied bounce. The proof was in Azmatullah Omarzai‘s dismissal, which came off a length ball bowled by Norman Vanua. However, Naib, together with Mohammad Nabi, opposed the conditions to preserve Afghanistan’s stability.
New Zealand’s Unexpected Exits
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New Zealand‘s elimination from the T20 World Cup was a major surprise. The Kiwis had great hopes for the tournament, but their losses against Afghanistan and the West Indies proved disastrous.
Their net run rate fell, sealing their fate even before their final group matches against Uganda and PNG.
This early elimination contrasts sharply with their semi-final participation in the previous season, highlighting the unpredictable nature of Twenty20 cricket. For New Zealand, it’s a time for reflection and regrouping as they attempt to end the campaign on a positive note in their remaining matchups.
Looking Ahead | Afghanistan’s Strategy For WC
Afghanistan’s triumph over PNG and passage to the Super Eight highlight its rising worldwide profile. This year Afghanistan has a strong profile as they did not face any MASSIVE hurdle to reach this Super Eight. Captain Rashid Khan acknowledged his delight with the team’s flexibility and collaborative effort. “Our players have understood their roles and adjusted quickly to the conditions,” he stated, praising their bowler Farooqi’s constant performance.
As Afghanistan prepares for more difficult trials, its success thus far has created confidence and enthusiasm among its followers. Their ability to combine aggressive bowling with strong batting makes them a difficult opponent for any side in the Super Eights.
About the Author
Zartash Zulfiqar is a passionate cricket writer whose love for cricket shines through in every word. From match analyses to player profiles, she delivers insightful commentary that resonates with fans worldwide. Stay tuned for the latest from the world of cricket, brought to you by Zartash.
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