Afghans chase down Kiwis: Another T20 World Cup upset

NEW YORK: In a remarkable turn of events at the Twenty20 World Cup, Afghanistan achieved a commanding 84-run victory against New Zealand. Chasing a target of 160 runs, New Zealand was bowled out for just 75 runs in 15.2 overs.

New Zealand won the toss and elected to bowl first. Afghanistan made the most of their opportunity, scoring 159 runs for the loss of six wickets in their 20 overs. Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran provided a solid start for Afghanistan. Gurbaz scored an impressive 80 runs off 56 balls, while Zadran contributed 42 runs off 41 balls. Azmatullah added a quick 22 runs off 13 balls, helping Afghanistan set a competitive total.

In response, New Zealand's batting lineup crumbled from the start. Fazal Haq Farooqi dismissed Finn Allen with the very first ball, setting the tone for Afghanistan's bowlers. Devon Conway managed only eight runs, and skipper Kane Williamson scored nine. The rest of the New Zealand batting order struggled, with Darryl Mitchell (5), Mark Chapman (4), Mitchell Bracewell (0), Mitchell Santner (4) and Lockie Ferguson (2) all falling cheaply. Only Glenn Phillips (18) and Matt Henry (12) managed to reach double figures.

Afghanistan's bowlers delivered an exceptional performance. Fazal Haq Farooqi and Rashid Khan took four wickets each, while Mohammad Nabi claimed two wickets, ensuring New Zealand was bowled out for a mere 75 runs.