3 Afghanistan players to watch out for in their clash against New Zealand in T20 World Cup 2024

Discover the top 3 Afghanistan players to watch in the T20 World Cup 2024 clash against New Zealand. There was a time when Afghanistan was considered an underdog in major limited-over tournaments, but that has not been the case for a few years now. They have one of the most formidable spin units and also have decent batting and pace departments that could upset many tournament favourites.

Afghanistan were the second-best Asian team in the 2023 ODI World Cup, thanks to their outstanding performances against Pakistan, England, Sri Lanka and Australia. They have several T20 specialists in their squad and it will not be surprising if Rashid Khan and Co. repeat their 50-over success in USA/West Indies.

Afghanistan started their campaign with a 125-run win over Oman. They are going to play at the same venue – Providence Stadium in Guyana – and will fancy their chances as they have a better understanding of the conditions. Notably, New Zealand have yet to play a match in the tournament.

Here are three Afghanistan players to watch out for in the match against New Zealand:

3. Rashid Khan

Rashid Khan will lead the team from the front with his wizardry. The star leg-spinner has immense experience playing T20 cricket and will look to help the team taste success in the marquee event. Although he had a modest campaign in the 2024 IPL, the 25-year-old picked up two wickets in the opening game against Uganda at an economy rate of just 3.00. He can also contribute vital runs in the lower order.

2. Rahmanullah Gurbaz

One of the reasons behind Afghanistan’s emphatic win over Uganda was the brilliant opening partnership between Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran. The duo added 154 runs in 14.3 overs with Gurbaz contributing 76 runs off 45 balls including four sixes and four boundaries. The right-hander is a powerful striker of the ball and always aims to give the team a blazing start. He could be a threat to the Kiwis in the upcoming match.

1. Fazalhaq Farooqi

Fazalhaq Farooqi claimed the first fifer of the tournament. He recorded figures of 5/9 in four overs to win the Player of the Match award against Uganda. The left-arm pacer is capable of giving early breakthroughs with his seam deliveries. Afghanistan will once again bank on Farooqi in the crucial match against New Zealand.