In the ongoing World Cup 2023, New Zealand extended their unbeaten streak with a commanding 149-run victory over Afghanistan in Chennai.
Despite a slight hiccup that saw the Black Caps slip from 109-1 to 110-4, they mounted a strong recovery, thanks to a partnership of 144 runs between Glenn Phillips (71) and captain Tom Latham (68). Both batsmen were eventually dismissed by Naveen-ul-Haq in the 48th over, but Mark Chapman’s quickfire 25 off 12 balls propelled New Zealand to a total of 288-9.
The New Zealand bowlers followed up with a clinical performance as they bundled out Afghanistan for just 139 runs in response. Afghanistan’s fielding lapses, which included five dropped catches and a missed stumping, proved costly. Opener Will Young, who was dropped on just one, went on to make a significant contribution by scoring a half-century. Latham also enjoyed two reprieves, which allowed him to accelerate the scoring with 62 runs in the final five overs.
With a competitive target to defend, New Zealand’s opening bowlers, Trent Boult and Matt Henry, delivered an economical spell that removed Afghanistan’s openers early. A spectacular diving catch by Mitchell Santner dismissed Afghanistan’s captain Hashmatullah Shahidi, leaving them struggling at 43-3. Although Rahmat Shah and Azmatullah Omarzai attempted to revive the innings with a partnership of 54 runs, they eventually succumbed to the mounting run-rate, losing their last seven wickets for just 42 runs.
Santner, not only a hero in the field but also with the ball, claimed 3-39, while Lockie Ferguson troubled Afghanistan with his pace, taking 3-19.
This emphatic victory significantly boosts New Zealand’s net run-rate, propelling them to the top of the table, ahead of India, who are also unbeaten but have played one game less. The Black Caps’ next challenge awaits them as they face India in Dharamsala on Sunday.
