New Zealand kept up the winning streak. They won over Afghanistan by 8 wickets. Afghanistan got the toss and decided to bat first. It played out to be a bad decision. New Zealand bowlers jeopardised Afghanistan’s plan to set up a high target. Further, New Zealand batting lineup acquired the put up target of 125 within 18.1 overs.
Afghanistan batting range were unable to build a partnership until Najibullah(73) took the bat. Apart from him, only Nabi(14) and Gulbadin(15) saw 2 digits. The New Zealand bowlers and fielders had a good grip on the ball. Unfortunately for Afghanistan, the match did not go according to their plan. The New Zealand bowlers kept picking up wickets, limiting Afghanistan to only 124-8 in 20 overs.
The loss of the Afghan team may have sealed India’s fate as well. Any chances India had of qualifying may have ceased with Afghanistan’s loss to New Zealand.
Kiwis presented a good game. The bowlers pluck out Afghan wickets at regular intervals, while restricting runs. The batsmen, namely Williamson(40) and Conway(36) led New Zealand to the target. Mitchell(17) and Guptill(28) chipped in as well. The New Zealand team achieved the target within 18.1 overs. They showcased a great game, for which they may be rewarded with entry to the semi-finals.
Australia and England, having qualified for semi- semi-finals, are waiting for their opponents. Who would play against them is yet to be decided.
Anyways, India seems to have sealed their hopes after Afghanistan’s loss. Any chances India had at qualifying are very faint now.
However, good news for New Zealand after the win today. Their chances of qualifying for the semi- finals are looking good.
Trent Boult was awarded the player of the match for his great efforts.
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