Afghanistan dominates New Zealand in a one-sided match

Afghanistan dominated New Zealand, securing a resounding victory with an impressive 84-run margin in Guyana. This win marks their second consecutive triumph at the ICC Men's T20 Cricket World Cup.

In an impressive display of skill and precision, Rahmanullah Gurbaz showcased his talent by scoring a remarkable 80 runs from just 56 deliveries.

His explosive performance was crucial in Afghanistan's total of 159-6. Ibrahim Zadran also made a valuable contribution with 44 runs from 41 balls as the opening partnership set a solid foundation for their team.

In response, New Zealand, who finished as runners-up in 2021, had a disappointing performance. They were dismissed for a mere 75 runs in 15.2 overs. This loss marks their first defeat to Afghanistan in a T20 international match.

Our performance in T20s against a formidable team such as New Zealand is truly remarkable; being at the forefront of this team is genuinely exhilarating, expressed Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan.

The left-arm seamer Fazalhaq Farooqi had an impressive performance against Uganda on Monday, taking five wickets. In just 3.2 overs, he managed to claim 4-17, while skipper Rashid also had a great bowling spell with the exact figures of 4-17.

Only two New Zealand players reached double figures in the match, with Glenn Phillips leading the way with a top score 18.

Afghanistan's victory has propelled them to the top of Group C, while New Zealand finds them at the bottom, just below Papua New Guinea on net run-rate.

Afghanistan has emerged victorious in their first two matches, securing impressive wins with margins of 125 runs and 84 runs, respectively. These victories have propelled them to a dominant position within their group.

The opening pair of Gurbaz and Zadran set the tone again by putting on an impressive 103-run partnership for the first wicket.

In an impressive display of skill and coordination, the opening pair achieved a remarkable feat by scoring consecutive century partnerships in a men's T20 World Cup. Their outstanding performance in the win over Uganda, where they shared 154 runs, has solidified their place in the record books.

In a stunning display of skill, Farooqi swiftly dismissed opener Finn Allen with the first ball of New Zealand's response, causing the Black Caps' innings to crumble.

"This performance fell short when it came to kicking off the tournament." "It's incredibly frustrating," expressed New Zealand captain Kane Williamson.

"We need to swiftly shift our focus from this, as the upcoming matches will be coming at us rapidly." He added.

New Zealand's next match is a crucial match against the West Indies in Trinidad on Wednesday, while Afghanistan will face Papua New Guinea the following day.