In the 16th match of the ODI Cricket World Cup 2023, New Zealand is set to face Afghanistan at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai today. The Blackcaps have displayed impressive performances in the tournament, but Afghanistan, following their stunning upset against defending champions England, is expected to pose a strong challenge to the Kiwi team.
New Zealand aims to maintain its undefeated streak in the competition. Afghanistan, fresh from a remarkable 69-run victory over England in their last match in Delhi, will be eager to create yet another upset. New Zealand, having won all three of their matches, currently occupies the second position in the standings, right behind India based on run rate. On the other hand, Afghanistan faced defeats against Bangladesh and India in their first two encounters but scripted history by defeating the mighty England in their third match.
Wicketkeeper-batsman Tom Latham will once again lead New Zealand, as regular captain Kane Williamson remains sidelined for several matches due to a thumb injury. Williamson, who missed the initial two matches due to an ACL injury sustained during the IPL, was ruled out of the tournament following a thumb injury after scoring 78 runs against Bangladesh. The New Zealand team, which has excelled even in his absence, will seek to continue their winning momentum.
The return of fast bowler Tim Southee from his thumb injury presents a potential boost for the Kiwis. The New Zealand batting lineup boasts talents like Will Young, Devon Conway, and Daryl Mitchell, while all-rounder Rachin Ravindra has been a vital contributor. The Kiwi batsmen, however, face a stern challenge in the form of Afghanistan’s spin duo, Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi, who troubled England significantly. The turning wicket at Chepauk may work to their advantage.
For Afghanistan, opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz has shone with half-centuries in two matches, and captain Hashmatullah Shahidi, along with Azmatullah Omarzai and Ikram Alikhil, have delivered valuable contributions. In their upcoming clash, they will encounter the pace of Trent Boult and Matt Henry, as well as the spin of Ravindra and Mitchell Santner. In their brief history in this format, the two teams have met only twice, with New Zealand emerging victorious on both occasions.
In an exclusive interview on the DAFA NEWS cricket show, former Zimbabwean cricketer Christopher Mpofu provided insightful statistics. He noted, “In the two ODI matches played between New Zealand and Afghanistan, New Zealand has emerged victorious in both encounters, with Afghanistan yet to secure a win. Additionally, New Zealand has triumphed in the sole ODI match between these teams at a neutral venue.”
Mpofu also shed light on the pitch conditions at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. “Traditionally, the MA Chidambaram Stadium provides favorable conditions for spin bowlers. The pitch tends to be slow and dry during the afternoon, aiding spinners and challenging batsmen. As the sun sets, conditions may become more batsman-friendly. Particularly at night, as dew sets in, it could pose difficulties for bowlers in gripping the ball.”
The stage is set for a captivating showdown as New Zealand and Afghanistan battle it out in Chennai, and cricket enthusiasts worldwide eagerly await the outcome of this intriguing contest in the ODI World Cup 2023.
