New Zealand Dominate Afghanistan in Cricket World Cup Match, Winning by 149 Runs
England v New Zealand: Cricket World Cup 2023 opener
New Zealand thrashed Afghanistan by 149 runs in their Cricket World Cup match at the County Ground in Taunton on Wednesday. The Black Caps posted a daunting total of 368/5, thanks to centuries from Martin Guptill and Kane Williamson, and then bowled out the Afghans for 219 in 46.1 overs.
Guptill got the New Zealand innings off to a flying start with a quickfire 108, his second century of the tournament. He was well supported by Williamson, who scored a majestic 106. The pair put on a 160-run partnership for the second wicket, which laid the foundation for a big score.
James Neesham and Colin de Grandhomme also made significant contributions with the bat, scoring 50 and 42 respectively. New Zealand eventually declared their innings on 368/5 after 50 overs.
In reply, Afghanistan were never really in the chase. They lost wickets at regular intervals and were eventually bowled out for 219 in the 47th over. Rashid Khan was the only Afghan batsman to offer any resistance, scoring a half-century.
Ish Sodhi and Trent Boult were the pick of the New Zealand bowlers, with three wickets each. Matt Henry and Lockie Ferguson also chipped in with two wickets each.
The win takes New Zealand to the top of the Cricket World Cup points table. They have now won four matches in a row and are looking like one of the favorites to win the tournament. Afghanistan, on the other hand, have now lost all of their four matches and are out of contention for the semi-finals.
