Afghanistan secured a convincing 7-wicket victory over Papua New Guinea (PNG) in the T20 World Cup 2024 match (PNG vs AFG) at Tarouba, Trinidad. This win not only booked their place in the Super 8 stage but also knocked New Zealand out of the tournament, marking their first exit before the semi-finals in a major World Cup (ODI or T20) since 2014.
PNG, after being put in to bat, got off to a decent start with a boundary and some singles. However, their momentum was shattered in the second over when their captain, Assad Vala, was run out thanks to a sharp throw from Fazalhaq Farooqui. This dismissal triggered a collapse, with Afghanistan’s pace attack leading the charge.
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Fazalhaq Farooqi and Naveen-ul-Haq delivered exceptional new-ball spells, exploiting the variable bounce of the pitch. Farooqi dismissed Lega Siaka and Sese Bau in quick succession, while Naveen sent back Hiri Hiri. PNG found themselves in deep trouble at 30 for 5 within the first 4 overs, effectively handing over the advantage to Afghanistan.
Afghanistan are through to the Second Round of #T20WorldCup 2024 after a comprehensive win over PNG đ
đ #AFGvPNG: https://t.co/4x3oqLgw3x pic.twitter.com/8xFd4bC9xl
— ICC (@ICC) June 14, 2024
PNG batsmen Chad Soper and Kiplin Doriga tried to rebuild the innings with some cautious batting. They managed a 24-ball partnership, adding 16 runs, but Soper’s dismissal through another run-out hampered their progress. Doriga, however, continued to fight back, utilizing the sweep shot effectively against spinners Rashid Khan and Noor Ahmad. Alei Nao also chipped in with some boundaries, and the pair added a valuable 38 runs.
Despite a brief scare early on, where Ibrahim Zadran was dismissed and Gurbaz fell cheaply, Afghanistan chased down the target of 96 with ease. Mohammad Nabi provided crucial support to Gulbadin Naib, who remained unbeaten on 49 runs, ensuring a comfortable victory with 29 balls to spare.
Fazalhaq Farooqi was awarded with the âPlayer of the Matchâ for his exceptional bowling performance. He ripped through PNG batting line-up with 3 wickets while conceding just 16 runs in his 4 over quota. Naveen-ul-Haq was also clinical as he scalped 2 crucial wickets while giving away just 4 runs in 2.5 overs.Â
With the win in PNG vs AFG, Afghanistan solidifies their position as they enters the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup 2024. Their ruthless bowling performance and composed chase demonstrate their capabilities.
Meanwhile, with this victory Afghanistan knocked New Zealand out of the T20 World Cup 2024. This will be the first time since 2014 that Black Caps will be out of the World Cup (ODI and T20) before the semifinals.Â
