(Image Source: AFP)
[Saba Sports News] In the 16th match of the ODI World Cup 2023, New Zealand faced Afghanistan at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Afghanistan won the toss and chose to field. The game began with an early setback for New Zealand as Devon Conway was dismissed by Mujeeb Ur Rahman’s spin. However, a partnership between Will Young and Rachin Ravindra provided some stability before both were dismissed by Azmatullah Omarzai in the same over.
New Zealand faced another setback when Daryl Mitchell fell to Rashid Khan’s leg spin, leaving them at 110/4. But stand-in captain Tom Latham partnered with Glenn Phillips to rebuild the innings. Despite dropped catches and wayward bowling by Afghanistan’s death bowlers, the fifth-wicket partnership between Phillips (71) and Latham (68) helped New Zealand reach a competitive total of 288.
Afghanistan never seemed to be in contention in their chase. New Zealand’s Matt Henry and Trent Boult quickly dismissed the Afghan openers. Afghanistan lost wickets at regular intervals and couldn’t pose a threat to the Kiwi bowling lineup.
The pitch favored the bowlers, and New Zealand’s bowlers took advantage. Afghanistan was bowled out for 139 runs in 34.4 overs, resulting in a comprehensive 149-run victory for New Zealand. Mitchell Santner and Lockie Ferguson impressed with three wickets each, while Boult contributed with two wickets, securing an easy win for the Kiwis.