PNG scored 78 in 19.4 overs, where as New Zealand scored 79/3 in 12.2 overs.
So, finally New Zealand beat PNG by 7 wickets.
Frugal spells from Lockie Ferguson (3 for 0) and Tim Southee (2 for 11) laid the foundation for New Zealand’s dominant 7-wicket victory over PNG in their final Group game of the 2024 T20 World Cup.
Ferguson became only the second bowler in T20I history to deliver 24 dot balls in an innings, dismantling the PNG batting lineup to bowl them out for a mere 78.
New Zealand chased down the target in just 12.2 overs, finishing their campaign on a high note.
The Difference: Lockie Ferguson’s Run-less Spell
Ferguson was introduced in the fifth over and built on the tight bowling from the new-ball pair, capitalizing on favorable conditions.
He claimed three key wickets without conceding a run.
His return in the middle overs, when PNG sought stability, halted their progress.
Ferguson’s removal of both set batters triggered a collapse, with PNG losing 8 wickets for 37 runs, ending with a below-par score.
PNG
Powerplay: Early Wickets Rock PNG
Phase Score: 16/2 (RR: 2.67, 2x4s)
Pre-game rain delayed the start but benefited New Zealand.
Early wickets from Southee and Ferguson put PNG on the back foot, resulting in their lowest Power Play score of 16/2.
Tony Ura mistimed a swing, leading to a catch at backward point.
Ferguson struck off his first ball, with Assad Vala edging to slips.
Middle Overs: Ferguson Strangles
Phase Score: 36/3 (RR: 4, 3x4s)
Ferguson’s wicket-maiden first over set the tone, but PNG found some respite with the introduction of spin, although Ish Sodhi was expensive.
Ferguson returned to remove the two set batters and completed his spell without conceding a run.
Death Overs: Boult, Sodhi Clean Up the Tail
Phase Score: 26/5 (RR: 5.5, 4s/6s: 2/1)
Trent Boult capitalized on PNG’s struggles, taking 2 wickets for 14 runs, including Hiri Hiri and Norman Vanua.
Sodhi, despite an expensive third over, cleaned up two tailenders in the final over, restricting PNG to 78.
New Zealand
Powerplay: Allen, Ravindra Depart Cheaply
Phase Score: 29/2 (RR: 4.83, 4s/6s: 1/2)
Chasing 79, New Zealand’s start was not straightforward.
Finn Allen edged behind to the keeper, and Rachin Ravindra also struggled.
Devon Conway hit a six off Alei Nao but Ravindra fell attempting a similar shot.
New Zealand ended the Power Play at 29/2.
Middle Overs: Conway Perishes but NZ Keep PNG Win-less
Phase Score: 50/1 (RR: 7.89, 4s/6s: 4/1)
Conway accelerated, hitting Chad Soper for a four and a six before being trapped LBW by Semo Kamea.
Daryl Mitchell took his time but eventually hit three boundaries in the 12th over, sealing the inevitable victory for New Zealand.
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