Afghanistan made history Friday night by defeating New Zealand by 84 runs in match 14 of the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, marking their first-ever victory over the Kiwis in any format.
In the Group C clash at Providence Stadium in Guyana, Afghanistan was asked to bat first by Kane Williamson. Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran led the charge with a 103-run opening stand. Gurbaz scored 80 off 56 balls, while Zadran added 44 off 41 balls. Azmatullah Omarzai contributed with a quick 22 off 13 balls, helping Afghanistan finish at 159/6.
In defense, Rashid Khan and Fazalhaq Farooqi each took four wickets, conceding just 17 runs apiece. Gurbaz earned the Player of the Match award for his performance, helping Afghanistan secure their first win against New Zealand.
Afghanistan vs. New Zealand Match History:
| Format | Date | Venue | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| ODI | March 8, 2015 | Napier | Lost |
| ODI | June 8, 2019 | Taunton | Lost |
| T20I | November 6, 2021 | Abu Dhabi | Lost |
| T20I | October 26, 2022 | Melbourne | Abandoned |
| ODI | October 18, 2023 | Chennai | Lost |
| T20I | June 7, 2024 | Guyana | Won |
With this victory, Afghanistan leads the race for the Super Eights stage in Group C. They have matches against West Indies and Papua New Guinea remaining. They will face PNG next on Thursday, June 13, at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Trinidad and Tobago.
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