Afghanistan solidified their status as dark horses in the 2024 T20 World Cup with a commanding seven-wicket victory over Papua New Guinea (PNG) on Thursday. This win secured their place in the Super Eight phase of the tournament and simultaneously eliminated New Zealand from contention.

Playing at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad, Afghanistan's left-arm seamer Fazalhaq Farooqi added three more wickets to his tournament-leading tally, bringing his total to 12. PNG, batting first, struggled against the Afghan bowling attack and were bowled out for 95 in 19.5 overs.

Despite losing both openers cheaply for the first time in the tournament, Afghanistan successfully chased down the target, finishing at 101-3 in 15.1 overs. Gulbadin Naib, who was dropped on nine by PNG wicketkeeper Kiplin Doriga off medium-pacer Alei Nao, anchored the innings with an unbeaten 49. He formed a crucial unbroken fourth-wicket partnership of 46 runs with Mohammad Nabi, who remained not out on 16.

This victory marks Afghanistan's third consecutive win, ensuring their progression along with hosts West Indies into the next round. The result also prematurely ends New Zealand's campaign, even though they have two group matches remaining.

Farooqi's stellar performance with the ball included two quick wickets early on, setting the tone for Afghanistan. PNG captain Assad Vala's careless run out in the second over further opened the door for Afghanistan. Subsequent run-outs and Farooqi's return in the 19th over to claim another wicket helped wrap up the PNG innings.

PNG showed resilience despite their precarious position at 50-7 in the 13th over. Doriga, who top-scored with 27, and Alei Nao (13) added 38 runs for the eighth wicket before Farooqi broke the partnership.

Afghanistan's bowling unit has been a standout in the tournament, with Farooqi leading the way. His 12 wickets are four more than the next highest wicket-takers, including South African pacer Anrich Nortje, West Indies' fast bowler Alzarri Joseph, and Australian leg-spinner Adam Zampa.

As Afghanistan moves forward to the Super Eights, their impressive form and growing confidence make them a formidable opponent in the competition.