India slumped to their second successive loss at the Super 12 stage of the ICC T20 World Cup in Dubai last night as they were completely outclassed by New Zealand. Kane Williamson’s team wrapped up the match by 8 wickets, reaching their target of 111 runs in just 14.3 overs. Daryl Mitchell was the top scorer with 49 for New Zealand while skipper Kane Williamson was unbeaten on 33. The victory was set up by New Zealand’s bowlers after Williamson put India in to bat on winning the toss. Ish Sodhi was adjudged ‘Player of the Match’ for figures of 2 for 17. Trent Boult picked up three wickets for New Zealand. Earlier, New Zealand won the toss and was elected to field. The Kiwi pacers and spinners did their job to restrict the Indians to 110 for 7 in 20 overs and the batsmen did the rest thereafter.
India’s chances of making the semi-finals now hang by a thread as they would have to rely on Afghanistan beating New Zealand and then win their remaining matches against the Afghans, Namibia and Scotland by huge margins to somehow try and squeeze into the last four.
In another match, Afghanistan defeated Namibia by 62 runs in Abu Dhabi yesterday evening. Electing to bat, Afghanistan scored 160 runs for the loss of five wickets in the stipulated 20 overs. Chasing the target, Namibia scored only 98 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in 20 overs.
Today, England will take on Sri Lanka in Sharjah at 7.30 PM. All India Radio is broadcasting ball-by-ball commentary of the World Cup matches.