Afghanistan bolstered their Super Eight prospects with a commanding 84-run victory over New Zealand in Providence. Building on their 125-run win against Uganda, Afghanistan tops Group C with a net run rate of 5.225.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz (80 off 56) and Ibrahim Zadran (103-run partnership) laid a solid foundation, marking the first consecutive century stands by an opening pair in T20 World Cup history. Despite a strong start, Afghanistan’s innings was split, scoring 55/0 in the first ten overs and 104/6 in the latter half, concluding at 159.
New Zealand, opting out of warm-up matches, showed rustiness in the field with missed chances and dropped catches. Fazalhaq Farooqi and Rashid Khan capitalized, each taking 4 for 17, as New Zealand crumbled to 75 all out in 15.2 overs. Only Glenn Phillips and Matt Henry reached double digits.
Farooqi dismantled New Zealand early, removing Finn Allen, Devon Conway, and Daryl Mitchell within the powerplay. Rashid Khan’s post-powerplay spell devastated New Zealand further, dismissing Kane Williamson, Mark Chapman, and Michael Bracewell, leaving them at 43/6.
Despite some resistance from Phillips, Afghanistan’s comprehensive bowling attack sealed a notable victory, underscoring their formidable presence in the tournament.
