T20 World Cup 2024, Afghanistan vs New Zealand: Video highlights, turning points, stats and more - Cricket Winner

In a stunning upset at the Guyana National Stadium on Friday, Afghanistan dominated a lackluster New Zealand, claiming the top spot in Group C at the T20 World Cup with an emphatic 84-run victory, marking their first-ever win against the Kiwis in T20 internationals.

Gurbaz and Zadran set the stage

Afghanistan set a challenging target of 160, thanks to a commanding performance from Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who scored 80 off 56 balls. He was well supported by Ibrahim Zadran’s solid 44. Their opening partnership of 103 runs by the 15th over laid a strong foundation, enabling Afghanistan to post a competitive total of 159 for six after being put in to bat. Gurbaz’s aggressive yet controlled innings was pivotal in putting pressure on the New Zealand bowlers, who struggled to break the opening stand.

Farooqi and Rashid dismantle New Zealand

New Zealand’s chase faltered dramatically, collapsing to 75 all out in just 15.2 overs. Fazalhaq Farooqi, continuing his stellar performance from the opening match against Uganda, wreaked havoc on the New Zealand batting lineup. Farooqi claimed four crucial wickets for just 17 runs, making an immediate impact by dismissing Finn Allen with the very first ball of the innings. His exceptional bowling was complemented by captain Rashid Khan, who mirrored Farooqi’s figures with four wickets for 17 runs, including the pivotal dismissal of Kane Williamson with his first ball, effectively sealing the match in Afghanistan’s favor.

See Also: Rashid Khan hails, “One of our greatest performances” after Afghanistan’s stunning 84-run win over New Zealand

New Zealand’s evident collapse and apparent lack of form present a daunting task for the 2021 finalists as they gear up to face hosts West Indies at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad next Wednesday. The contrast between the teams was stark, with Williamson’s somber demeanor highlighting New Zealand’s woes, while Rashid Khan celebrated his team’s historic victory. Khan commended Farooqi’s remarkable impact, noting his nine-wicket haul in the first two matches of the World Cup, which has been instrumental in Afghanistan’s success.

Afghanistan defeating New Zealand is not an upset. Hope this helps. They are easily the 2nd best Asian cricket team at the moment. #NZvsAFG pic.twitter.com/iPmwFcYsbx

— R A T N I S H (@LoyalSachinFan) June 8, 2024

This is for the 1st Afghanistan has defeated New Zealand in T20I cricket. Many more to come. Afghanistan is on the rise 🇦🇫 #NZvsAFG pic.twitter.com/mKQzDOemij

— R A T N I S H (@LoyalSachinFan) June 8, 2024

100+ opening stand by Gurbaz and Ibrahim, Fazalhaq destroying the top order, then Rashid running through the middle order. Top notch professional display from Afghanistan! NZ on the other hand looked extremely under prepared and paid a heavy price. #NZvAFG #T20WorldCup pic.twitter.com/OJ0Oam31MQ

— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) June 8, 2024

𝐑𝐮𝐧𝐬: 𝟖𝟎
𝐁𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐬: 𝟓𝟔
𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬: 𝟓
𝐒𝐢𝐱𝐞𝐬: 𝟓
𝐒.𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐞: 𝟏𝟒𝟐.𝟖𝟓

Ladies and Gentlemen! Our Player of the Match for you – @RGurbaz_21! 👏#AfghanAtalan | #T20WorldCup | #AFGvNZ | #GloriousNationVictoriousTeam pic.twitter.com/b4saQwXqze

— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) June 8, 2024

Sensational performances from @rashidkhan_19, #RahmanullahGurbaz, #MohammadNabi, and #FazalhaqFarooqi power @ACBofficials to their maiden win against @BLACKCAPS in T20Is! 🇦🇫

Next match: #NEDvSA, 6 PM onwards

Also don't miss the oldest rivalry #AUSvENG, TODAY, 10:30 PM, Star… pic.twitter.com/eNarQKRhic

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) June 8, 2024

Witness the historic moment when Afghanistan registered victory over New Zealand! 🇦🇫#T20WorldCup #NZvsAFG #RashidKhanpic.twitter.com/DrVhQK20aj

— OneCricket (@OneCricketApp) June 8, 2024

This victory not only boosts Afghanistan’s morale but also puts them in a strong position in Group C, showcasing their potential to compete at the highest level in international cricket.