U-19 World Cup: Afghanistan knocks Kiwis out, storms into semifinals

Batting first, Afghanistan scored 309/6 and then bowled out New Zealand for just 107. In the semifinal, Afghanistan will meet Australia.

A file photo of Afghanistan U-19 team. The team stormed into the semifinals of the U-19 World Cup beating New Zealand.

Afghanistan created history on Thursday when it defeated New Zealand by a gargantuan 202 runs to storm into the semifinal of the ICC U-19 Cricket World Cup at the Hagley Oval.

Batting first, Afghanistan scored 309/6, with Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Bahir Shah and Asmatullah Omarzai sizzling with the bat by scoring half-centuries.

Omarzai was destructive in particular as his 23-ball 66 was too hot for New Zealand to handle. Omarzai smoked seven sixes, with Afghanistan scoring 83 in its last six overs.

Chasing a mammoth 310 to win, New Zealand crumbled under pressure and was bowled out for a paltry 107.

Qais Ahmed and Mujeeb took four wickets apiece for Afghanistan.

In the semifinal, Afghanistan will take on Australia.