Afghanistan vs New Zealand produced a stunning upset as Afghanistan defeated the Black Caps by 6 runs in a T20 World Cup thriller. The result severely complicates New Zealand's path to the Super 8 stage.

Match Summary

Afghanistan scored 178-6 from their 20 overs at Providence Stadium, Guyana. Rahmanullah Gurbaz top-scored with 76 from 48 balls. New Zealand fell just short, finishing on 172-8. Rashid Khan's 2-26 proved decisive in the final overs.

Afghanistan's Innings

Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran put on 104 for the first wicket. Tim Southee took 2-35 but conceded 15 in the final over. Afghanistan accelerated to 62 runs in the last five overs. The total represented their highest T20 score against New Zealand.

New Zealand's Chase

Finn Allen fell for a duck in the first over. Kane Williamson steadied the innings with 48 from 42 balls. Glenn Phillips' 34 from 18 balls kept hopes alive. Rashid Khan's 18th over, conceding just 4 runs, swung the match decisively.

Group D Implications

Afghanistan moves to second place with two wins from two matches. New Zealand sits fourth with one win and one loss. The Black Caps must win their remaining games against West Indies and Uganda. Net run rate could determine qualification.

Player Reactions

Williamson called the loss disappointing but not fatal to their hopes. Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan praised his team's belief. New Zealand coach Gary Stead emphasized the need for quick recovery.