Lockie Ferguson Makes History as New Zealand Crush Papua New Guinea in T20 World Cup
New Zealand ended their T20 World Cup 2024 campaign with a commanding seven-wicket win over Papua New Guinea. Lockie Ferguson made history by bowling four maidens and taking 3/0, achieving the most economical figures in T20 International history, equaling Canada’s Saad Bin Zafar’s record from 2021.
After rain delayed the start, New Zealand won the toss and opted to bowl. Tim Southee struck first, removing Tony Ura early. Ferguson’s remarkable spell tied PNG in knots, restricting them to 78 in 19.4 overs. Trent Boult, in what might be his final T20 World Cup appearance, contributed with 2/15, while Southee took 2/11.
Chasing 79, New Zealand lost Finn Allen and Rachin Ravindra early, both to Kabua Morea’s impressive 2/4. Devon Conway steadied the innings with 35 off 32 balls, and Kane Williamson (18*) along with Daryl Mitchell (19*) completed the chase with 46 balls to spare.
Despite the win, New Zealand’s tournament ended disappointingly, failing to qualify from Group C after losses to Afghanistan and West Indies. Conversely, Papua New Guinea exited the tournament without a win.
