New Zealand secured their place in the T20 World Cup semi-finals with an eight-wicket win over Afghanistan; Trent Boult took 3-17 as Afghanistan were restricted to 124-8 before Kane Williamson made 40no in the chase; the result also means India cannot qualify from Group 2
By Sam Drury
Last Updated: 07/11/21 1:33pm
New Zealand eased to an eight-wicket win over Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi to book their place in the T20 World Cup semi-finals and eliminate pre-tournament favourites India.
The Black Caps went into the game knowing victory would see them through to the last four and produced a consummate performance as they restricted Afghanistan to 124-8, Trent Boult taking 3-17 and Tim Southee 2-24.
Kane Williamson (40no from 42 balls) then ensured there was no drama in the chase, sharing an unbroken 68-run partnership with Devon Conway (36no from 32) to get his side over the line with 11 balls remaining.
Unless Scotland can provide a shock result and beat Pakistan in Sunday’s second game, New Zealand will now face England in Wednesday’s first semi-final in Abu Dhabi, with Australia meeting Pakistan in Dubai on Thursday for a place in the final.
More to follow…
WHAT’S NEXT?
The final game of the Super 12s sees India face Namibia in Dubai, as Virat Kohli aims to sign off as T20 captain with a win. The match is also Ravi Shastri’s last as head coach before Rahul Dravid takes over.
India vs Namibia
November 8, 2021, 1:30pm
Live on
The T20 World Cup continues live on Sky Sports Cricket from 1.30am on Monday. Watch India vs Namibia in Dubai with the two semi-finals to come on Wednesday and Thursday.