* Gulbadin Naib’s Unbeaten 49, anchored Afghan chase (Match 29)
By Dwayne Ferreira
Afghanistan advanced to the Super Eight stage of the T20 World Cup 2024, eliminating New Zealand with a seven-wicket victory over Papua New Guinea (PNG) in Tarouba.
Afghanistan’s win was orchestrated by their fast bowlers, Fazalhaq Farooqi and Naveen-ul-Haq, who decimated PNG’s top order. Farooqi claimed 3 for 16, while Naveen took 2 for 4, reducing PNG to 95 all out. PNG’s innings was further marred by four run-outs, underlining their struggles.
Afghanistan chased the modest target of 96 comfortably, with Gulbadin Naib anchoring the innings with an unbeaten 49. Despite early hiccups, losing both openers Ibrahim Zadran and Rahmanullah Gurbaz cheaply, Naib’s steady hand guided Afghanistan to victory with 29 balls to spare.
Afghanistan’s chase began shakily. Semo Kamea’s early breakthroughs put pressure on Afghanistan, but PNG missed a crucial opportunity when Kiplin Doriga dropped Naib. Despite Azmatullah Omarzai’s dismissal to a low bounce, Naib, supported by Mohammad Nabi, steadied the ship and ensured a smooth finish.
With this win, Afghanistan leads Group C with six points and a net run rate of 4.230. This victory marks a significant achievement for Afghanistan, ensuring their progression and ending New Zealand’s campaign early, a first since 2014 for a men’s World Cup event.
Afghanistan’s emphatic performance sets a high bar as they move forward in the tournament, showcasing their bowling prowess and resilience under pressure.
Chief Scores
Papua New Guinea 95 all out in 19.5 overs (Kipling Doriga 27, Fazalhaq Farooqi 3 for 16, Naveen Ul-Haq 2 for 4)
Afghanistan 101 for 3 in 15.1 overs (Gulbadin Naib 49 not out)
Player of the Match – Fazalhaq Farooqi
