Afghanistan's Farooqi shines as they storm into Super Eight, knocking out New Zealand in T20 World Cup 2024. © Twitter (@PuntersClubNews)
Afghanistan demonstrated their might by defeating Papua New Guinea (PNG) in a thrilling Group C match at the T20 World Cup 2024, securing their spot in the Super Eight round. This victory affirmed Afghanistan’s status as a rising force in international cricket and marked a significant moment as New Zealand, a traditional powerhouse, faced an unexpected exit from the tournament.
Match Summary
Papua New Guinea 95 (19.5) | |
Kiplin Doriga 26 (32) | Fazalhaq Farooqi |
Alei Nao 13 (19) | Naveen-ul-Haq |
Tony Ura 11 (18) | Noor Ahmad |
Afghanistan 101/3 (15.1) | |
Gulbadin Naib 49 (36) | Semo Kamea |
Mohammad Nabi 16 (23) | Norman Vanua |
Azmatullah Omarzai 13 (18) | Alei Nao |
Toss: Afghanistan chose to field first after winning the throw
Stadium: Brian Lara Cricket Academy
Result: Afghanistan won by seven wickets.
Player of the Match: Fazalhaq Farooqi – 3/16 (4)
First Innings Recap Afghanistan’s Bowling Masterclass
After winning the toss, Afghanistan chose to field first at the stunning Tarouba location. Their decision to bowl first on a pitch showing early signs of assistance for the fast bowlers proved shrewd as Fazalhaq Farooqi and Naveen-ul-Haq unleashed a devastating opening spell. Farooqi, in particular, was unplayable with his incisive swing bowling, claiming three crucial wickets for a mere 16 runs in his spell. Naveen-ul-Haq ably supported him, picking up two vital wickets for just four runs, strangling PNG’s batting lineup right from the outset.
Afghanistan’s sharp fielding further bolstered the early breakthroughs, which resulted in several run-outs, dismantling PNG’s hopes of posting a competitive total. Despite Kiplin Doriga’s resilient 26 and some late-order resistance, PNG could only manage a modest total of 95 runs, bowled out in 19.5 overs.
Key Moments in PNG’s Innings
Assad Vala’s unfortunate run-out early in the innings set the tone for PNG’s struggles, as Afghanistan’s fielders maintained relentless pressure in the field. The pace duo of Farooqi and Naveen-ul-Haq exploited the favorable conditions with their pace and movement off the pitch, leaving PNG reeling and unable to recover.
Afghanistan’s Response The Chase
Chasing a target of 96 runs for victory, Afghanistan faced some early jitters, losing Ibrahim Zadran and Rahmanullah Gurbaz cheaply. However, Gulbadin Naib, Afghanistan’s experienced campaigner, anchored the innings superbly. Naib’s composed, unbeaten 49 ensured Afghanistan steadied their ship after the early setbacks. Mohammad Nabi provided valuable support, consolidating Afghanistan’s position with a steady 16 not out, guiding the team to victory with 29 balls to spare.
Key Moments in Afghanistan’s Chase
Despite the early wobbles, Afghanistan’s middle-order stability and Naib’s leadership in the middle were crucial in steering the team towards a convincing victory. Naib’s innings were a testament to his experience and ability to navigate pressure situations, ensuring Afghanistan progressed smoothly to the Super Eight stage of the tournament.
Impact on the Tournament
Afghanistan’s dominant performance secured their advancement and sent shockwaves through the cricketing world with New Zealand’s unanticipated elimination. The defeat marked the first time since 2014 that New Zealand failed to progress beyond the group stage of a men’s World Cup, underlining the competitive nature of the T20 format.
Afghanistan’s Path Ahead
Afghanistan’s clinical display with both bat and ball reaffirms its status as a rising cricketing nation. Afghanistan will draw confidence from this victory and look to build momentum as it prepares for tougher challenges in the Super Eight stage. As it attempts to advance internationally, its T20 World Cup 2024 trip promises to be exciting and challenging.