News DeskAfghanistan has made a blistering start to the T20 World Cup, demolishing New Zealand by a massive 84 runs in their Group C match in Guyana. This dominant victory follows their opening win against Uganda and hands them a commanding lead atop Group C with an impressive net run rate of +5.225.
The star of the show for Afghanistan was pace bowler Fazalhaq Farooqi, who continued his incredible form with figures of 4-17. After his 5-9 against Uganda, Farooqi ripped through the New Zealand top order, leaving the Black Caps reeling at 28-3 in their pursuit of 160.
Afghan captain Rashid Khan was equally lethal with the ball, taking 4-17 as New Zealand was skittled out for just 75 in 15.2 overs – their second-lowest total ever in men’s T20 World Cups.
Earlier, Afghan openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz (80) and Ibrahim Zadran (44) had set the platform with a 103-run opening stand. Despite a mid-innings wobble, Afghanistan posted a competitive 159-6 from their 20 overs.
For New Zealand, it was a disastrous outing after captain Kane Williamson opted to field first. Their bowling lacked discipline, and the batters crumbled under the relentless Afghan attack led by Farooqi and Rashid.
The Black Caps now face a crucial clash against the host West Indies on Wednesday, with their semi-final hopes hanging by a thread after this heavy defeat. Afghanistan, meanwhile, will eye a third straight win when they take on Papua New Guinea on Thursday, firmly establishing themselves as contenders.
