The Black Caps have began their 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup campaign with a thrilling five-wicket win over Afghanistan in Chennai on Sunday. Chasing a tough target of 183 runs, the New Zealand team bounced back from early trouble to secure victory with 13 balls left.
Afghanistan chose to bat first and scored 182 runs for six wickets in their 20 overs. Gulbadin Naib led the way with a fast 63 runs off just 35 balls, helping his team finish strongly. Lockie Ferguson was New Zealand’s best bowler, taking two wickets.
In reply, New Zealand struggled at the start, losing two wickets for just 14 runs. Off-spinner Mujeeb Ur Rahman bowled brilliantly, removing both Finn Allen and Rachin Ravindra early. But Tim Seifert and Glenn Phillips turned the match around with a quick 74-run partnership.
Seifert hit 65 runs from 42 balls, including back-to-back sixes, and was named Player of the Match. Phillips added 42 before being bowled by Afghan captain Rashid Khan.
After a few more wickets, Daryl Mitchell and Mitchell Santner stayed calm under pressure. They guided New Zealand safely to the target, finishing unbeaten on 25 and 17 runs.
This was New Zealand’s highest successful run chase in T20 World Cup history, beating their previous best of 167 against England in 2021. The win gives them a strong start in Group D as they aim for a place in the next round.
