Xtra Time Web Desk: New Zealand and Afghanistan will be involved in what is going to be a virtual quarter final for both teams as they face each other in the ongoing T20 World Cup at Abu Dhabi on Sunday. Hopes of India qualifying for the last four will depend on the outcome of the match as well. If Kane Williamson’s men wins the match, it will be all over for the Men in Blue.
Looking at New Zealand go about their game; they have been calm and disciplined in all facets. Rather than go all out with bat or ball, they have picked their moments and managed to flip a switch at crucial points in the contest, quickly turning the pressure onto their opponents.
In their last match of the Super 12 stage, New Zealand’s ask is simple: win, and they seal a top-two spot in Group 2, thus making it to the semi-final. If they lose, their campaign is over.
The task for Afghanistan is a little more complicated: if they win, they will be equal on points with New Zealand, but will benefit from a better net run rate and thus have a greater claim to second place. However, their progress to the semis will depend on the final match of the Super 12 stage, which is India v Namibia. If Afghanistan win, it opens the door for pre-tournament favourites India to sneak into the top two.
It won’t be easy for Afghanistan. The game is in Abu Dhabi, where pace, rather than spin, has played a big role. They should be wary of the New Zealand pacers, especially Trent Boult, who have been excellent in the conditions in the UAE. As it has been throughout the tournament, a lot will come down to how well they bat early on in the Powerplay.