NZ vs AFG LIVE Score, T20 World Cup 2024: Gurbaz, Zadran Partnership Propels Afghanistan to Victory

NZ vs AFG LIVE Score, T20 World Cup 2024: Gurbaz, Zadran Partnership Propels Afghanistan to Victory

Keywords: NZ vs AFG, T20 World Cup 2024, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Afghanistan

Adelaide, Australia: Afghanistan secured a thrilling victory over New Zealand in their Group B encounter of the 2024 T20 World Cup on Thursday.

Opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran forged a match-winning partnership of 132 runs for the second wicket to set the platform for Afghanistan’s chase. Gurbaz smashed 84 off just 45 deliveries, while Zadran contributed with a fluent 78.

New Zealand’s bowlers struggled to contain the duo, with Tim Southee and Lockie Ferguson going wicketless. New Zealand captain Kane Williamson also tried his luck with a few overs of spin but without success.

Afghanistan reached their target of 160 with five balls to spare, thanks to the heroics of Gurbaz and Zadran. Ish Sodhi and Mitchell Santner picked up two wickets each for New Zealand, but it proved to be too little too late.

Earlier, New Zealand had posted a competitive total of 159-8 on the Adelaide Oval pitch. Devon Conway top-scored with 42, while Williamson contributed with a vital 35.

Mujeeb Ur Rahman was the pick of the Afghan bowlers, claiming three wickets in his four overs. Rashid Khan and Naveen-ul-Haq also impressed, picking up two wickets each.

With this victory, Afghanistan has opened their account in the T20 World Cup 2024 and will now face England in their next match. New Zealand, on the other hand, will be looking to bounce back when they take on Sri Lanka.

Brief Scores:

New Zealand: 159-8 in 20 overs (Conway 42, Williamson 35; Mujeeb 3-24)
Afghanistan: 160-2 in 19.1 overs (Gurbaz 84, Zadran 78)

Result: Afghanistan wins by 8 wickets