New Zealand vs Afghanistan Live Score, Cricket World Cup 2023 Updates: As the cricket world turns its gaze toward the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, an electrifying encounter is on the cards. New Zealand, the unbeaten team of the tournament so far, are preparing to lock horns with Afghanistan, fresh from their sensational victory against England. With India leading the points table, New Zealand trail in second place, bolstered by three wins and a strong net run rate. Afghanistan, having sprung one of the tournament’s biggest surprises, occupy the sixth spot.

Unveiling a twist to the MA Chidambaram Stadium’s typical narrative, recent matches have favoured teams batting second. Despite an historical edge for teams opting to bat first—claiming victory in 14 out of 25 games—the tide has turned. Both recent World Cup games hosted at this venue saw teams chasing targets of 200 and 246, turning the tables on the established paradigm.

It’s worth noting that the venue has been a playing field that rewards the tactically adept, particularly those skilled against spin bowling. The pitch can be a double-edged sword: While established batsmen can score heavily, the surface’s slow pace can fox power hitters.

New Zealand’s invincibility this season isn’t their only claim to fame in this match-up. The Kiwis have a historical upper hand, defeating Afghanistan in both previous ODIs during past World Cups. However, Afghanistan’s form this year could make for a very different contest. Under Hashmatullah Shahidi’s leadership, the team now boasts stars like Rashid Khan, Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Mujeeb Ur Rahman.

While New Zealand continue to ride a wave of success with three matches and as many wins, Afghanistan are lifted by a morale-boosting victory against England—the defending world champions no less. The Afghans outclassed England by 69 runs, shaking the points table and the World Cup narrative at large.

This clash isn’t just a fixture; it’s a litmus test for both squads. New Zealand aim to continue its winning spree, holding onto the coveted second spot on the table. Afghanistan, on the other hand, want to maintain its newfound momentum, striving to climb further up the ladder.

New Zealand Probable XI

Devon Conway, Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Tom Latham (capt, wk), Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner, Mark Henry, Lockie Ferguson, Trent Boult

Afghanistan Probable XI

Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (capt), Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Ikram Alikhil (wk), Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi

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