Afghanistan secured a spot in the Super 8 of the T20 World Cup 2024 with a commanding seven-wicket victory over Papua New Guinea at the Brian Lara Stadium on Friday. This marks the first time Afghanistan will compete among the top eight teams in the tournament’s history.
Match Highlights:
Afghanistan vs Papua New Guinea (T20 World Cup 2024):
Afghanistan’s win allowed them to reclaim the top position in Group C’s points table. Meanwhile, New Zealand was eliminated from the competition, languishing at the bottom of the table with a net run rate of -2.425. Prior to their victory over PNG, Afghanistan had convincingly defeated Uganda and New Zealand.
Afghanistan’s Bowling Masterclass:
Opting to field first, Afghanistan reduced Papua New Guinea to 30 for 5 in the powerplay. Fazalhaq Farooqi, the top wicket-taker this season, led the charge with figures of 4-0-16-3, dismissing Lega Siaka, Sese Bau, and Alei Nao. Naveen-ul-Haq contributed by taking the wickets of Tony Ura and Hiri Hiri. PNG’s prolific run-scorer, Assad Vala, was run out after a mix-up with Ura. PNG struggled to recover and were bowled out for 95 in 19.5 overs. Kiplin Doriga top-scored with 27 off 32, but Noor Ahmad dismissed him, finishing with 4-0-14-1. Skipper Rashid Khan, although economical with a rate of 6.25, did not take any wickets.
Afghanistan’s Run-Chase:
Afghanistan’s chase began shakily as Ibrahim Zadran was dismissed without scoring. Semo Kamea cleaned up the opener with a hard-length delivery. Rahmanullah Gurbaz added some quick runs before being dismissed by Nao. Gulbadin Naib and Azmatullah Omarzai then steadied the innings with a 33-run partnership. Norman Vanua dismissed Omarzai, but Gulbadin remained unbeaten on 49, guiding Afghanistan to victory with 29 balls to spare.
Afghanistan will face West Indies in their final Group match on Monday, June 17, at the Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium in Gros Islet, St. Lucia.
