T20 World Cup 2024: Ruthless Afghanistan beat New Zealand

The T20 World Cup 2024 is becoming more and more interesting. The Afghanistan vs. New Zealand match was a perfect thrill. At the Providence Stadium in Guyana, Afghanistan beat New Zealand with an 84-run victory in the 2024 T20 World Cup. It was a setting of a big surprise because the Afghanistan team has never defeated New Zealand in the past. Afghanistan’s decisive victory not only makes history in the World Cup but also their first-ever T20I triumph over the cricketing heavyweight.

After winning the toss, New Zealand—who was thought to be a serious title contender—decided to field first. But while Afghanistan’s openers, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and Ibrahim Zadran, got off to a brilliant start, their plan backfired horribly. The two batted with a combination of caution and aggression. As a result, they laid a strong foundation in the Powerplay and picking up speed in the middle overs. Their partnership of 103 runs set the tone for an impressive batting performance. It was the Afghan openers’ second-consecutive century stand in the match.

The star of the show was left-handed daredevil Gurbaz, who scored an incredible 80 off of just 56 deliveries. His knock had five boundaries and five sixes, making it a masterclass in restrained aggression. Zadran (44) came up just short of his half-century but still contributed vital support. After the openers were out, Afghanistan continued to score runs, and Azmatullah Omarzai hit a quick 22 to help them break the 150-run mark.

New Zealand’s batting lineup appeared disorganized

With a difficult aim to chase, New Zealand’s batting lineup appeared utterly disorganized. After making an early impression against Uganda with five wickets, left-arm seamer Fazalhaq Farooqi tore through the Black Caps top order. After only six overs, he had dismissed Finn Allen, Devon Conway, and Daryl Mitchell for a pittance thanks to his explosive opening spell, which had left New Zealand reeling at 33/3.

New Zealand’s problems were worsened when Rashid Khan, the master of spin, arrived. Known for his cunning and deceit, the leg-spinner took out captain Kane Williamson with the opening ball of his stint, which proved to be important. There was effectively no chance left for a New Zealand comeback after this dismissal. Rashid quickly dismissed Mark Chapman and Michael Bracewell, shattering the Black Caps batting order. Eventually, Afghanistan beat New Zealand in the one-sided game of the T20 World Cup.

Mohammad Nabi, an experienced all-rounder, tightened the noose around Glenn Phillips, one of the few batters in New Zealand to score in double figures. After returning to finish off the tail, Farooqi claimed his fourth wicket to give Afghanistan an incredible victory. Afghanistan achieved a historic victory as New Zealand was bowled out for a pitiful 75 in just 15.2 overs, their lowest-ever Twenty20I total.

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Strong bowling line up of Afghanistan

Afghanistan’s resounding victory sends a powerful message to the cricket community. They are the strong team that can defeat any team. Also, they have shown to be serious competitors for the coveted World Cup championship. Their bowling attack proved too strong for a sluggish New Zealand team, and their batting exhibition demonstrated their depth and strength.

Conversely, the Black Caps will have to get back together fast. They made numerous mistakes in all three areas of the game during their performance against Afghanistan. They made the incorrect decision to bowl first, and their bowling lacked bite and their batting was incoherent. New Zealand have to step up their game if they want to save their World Cup campaign, especially with a pivotal match against co-hosts West Indies approaching.

The 2024 T20 World Cup has just commenced, and this incredible upset has already created an exciting atmosphere for the competition. The fact that Afghanistan won serves as a reminder that any team can upset the status quo at any time. With several other formidable competitors in the mix, the competition for the T20 World Cup title looks to be exciting.

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FAQs

• Who won the match between Afghanistan and New Zealand?

In a thrilling Twenty20 World Cup match played in Guyana, Afghanistan crushed New Zealand by an overwhelming 84 runs.

• What was the key to Afghanistan’s victory?

Rahmanullah Gurbaz (80 runs) and Ibrahim Zadran (44 runs) shared a good opening combination that laid the groundwork for a formidable total. Fazalhaq Farooqi (4 wickets) and Rashid Khan (4 wickets) bowled brilliantly to limit New Zealand to just 75 runs.

• What does this win mean for Afghanistan?

Afghanistan has defeated New Zealand in T20I cricket for the first time, and this victory is their greatest ever in World Cup history. 

• What are the challenges for New Zealand moving forward?

It will be necessary for New Zealand to address their subpar play in every area of the game. They will need to make a big improvement to stay in the competition in this World Cup.