New Zealand to Play Their First Match Against Afghanistan
Nearly a week after the opening match of the World Cup, New Zealand is set to begin their campaign. On Saturday, June 8, at dawn, they will face a formidable Afghanistan team. The match will commence at 5:30 AM at Guyana's Providence Stadium.
Before the World Cup, legendary cricketer Brian Lara had predicted Afghanistan as a potential semifinalist. Many laughed and were surprised at his inclusion of players like Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi among the top four contenders. However, Afghanistan proved their potential by defeating Uganda in their first match. Fazal Haq Farooqi set a record in that match by becoming the fourth-highest wicket-taker in T20 World Cup history with his five-wicket haul.
Afghanistan is aiming for another victory against New Zealand. Since their T20 World Cup debut in 2010, they have reached the Super Eight in the last three editions. The Blue Tigers are determined to continue this trend and a win against New Zealand would almost secure their spot in the semifinals.
On the other hand, New Zealand did not play any warm-up matches before the World Cup. Captain Kane Williamson and opener Devon Conway are making their returns in this match. Williamson is relying on Trent Boult to disrupt Afghanistan’s batting lineup. Both Rashid Khan and Ish Sodhi have taken 25 wickets each in T20 World Cups, and both will be looking to surpass each other in this tournament.
