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Fans React As Afghanistan Advance To T20 World Cup Super 8s; Knock Out New Zealand With A Win Over PNG

Darvesh Bhola

Afghanistan has advanced to the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup, after a decisive win over Papua New Guinea by seven wickets in Trinidad. This victory also resulted in the elimination of New Zealand from the tournament. After bowling out Papua New Guinea for a modest total of 95 runs, Afghanistan’s early struggles were offset by Gulbadin Naib’s undefeated 49 runs, which led them to victory.

On a challenging pitch at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Gulbadin was the only batsman to find his rhythm, striking four boundaries and two sixes in his 36-ball innings. Afghanistan’s seam bowlers, Fazalhaq Farooqi (3-16) and Naveen-ul-Haq (2-4), were instrumental in dismantling Papua New Guinea’s batting lineup.

The collapse began with Farooqi taking two wickets in two consecutive deliveries, and then Naveen-ul-Haq further compounded their troubles with two more quick wickets, reducing them to 12-3 in the third over. Papua New Guinea’s situation worsened due to four run-outs, leaving them at 50-7 before wicketkeeper Kiplin Doriga’s 27-run effort offered some resistance.

Afghanistan’s Bowlers and Gulbadin Naib’s Composure Secure Super 8 Spot, Eliminate New Zealand

Despite the tricky conditions, Afghanistan managed their chase effectively. They were initially set back at 22-2 in the third over, but Gulbadin Naib’s composed performance ensured they reached the target with 29 balls to spare, marking their third consecutive win.

This victory not only secured Afghanistan’s place in the Super 8s but also marked the end of New Zealand’s campaign. The Black Caps, consistent semi-finalists in the last three T20 tournaments and runners-up in 2021 were unable to progress from Group C after heavy defeats to Afghanistan and the West Indies.

Afghanistan’s bowlers set the foundation for their success. Choosing to bowl first, they quickly took charge by removing key Papua New Guinea batsmen. Captain Assad Vala was run out in the second over, and Farooqi followed up with two wickets in the third over. Naveen-ul-Haq continued the onslaught, dismissing Hiri Hiri and Tony Ura within the powerplay. Although Doriga and Alei Nao added 38 runs later in the innings, Papua New Guinea’s total of 95 was insufficient to challenge Afghanistan.

Afghan Fans Celebrate Team’s Super 8 Qualification and Dominant Bowling Performance

The Afghan fans were ecstatic, celebrating their team’s progress to the Super 8s. Social media was flooded with congratulatory messages and praises for the team’s resilience and performance. Fans particularly appreciated the bowlers’ exceptional display, which was crucial in securing the victory. The enthusiasm was palpable as Afghanistan topped Group C, ahead of the West Indies on net run rate, with a crucial match against them in St Lucia looming.

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