Lockie Ferguson Leads New Zealand to Victory Over Papua New Guinea
With Lockie Ferguson’s record-breaking bowling performance, New Zealand ended their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 campaign with a decisive win over Papua New Guinea.
Ferguson’s Maiden Magic
Ferguson etched his name in the history books by bowling four maiden overs, achieving the most economical figures in T20 format with 3/0. This remarkable feat is only the second of its kind in men’s T20 Internationals, following Canada’s Saad Bin Zafar’s 2/0 against Panama in 2021.
Dominant Kiwi Bowling Attack
New Zealand’s decision to bowl first after a rain delay proved fruitful as Trent Boult, in his final T20 World Cup appearance, and Tim Southee quickly dismantled Papua New Guinea’s top order. Ferguson’s immediate impact was felt as he claimed the wicket of PNG captain Assad Vala with his very first delivery.
The Kiwi bowlers maintained a stranglehold throughout the innings, with Boult (2/15), Southee (2/11), Ish Sodhi (2/29), and Mitchell Santner (1/17) all contributing to PNG’s collapse for a meager 78 runs.
Steady Chase Ensures Kiwi Win
Despite early setbacks with Finn Allen (0) and Rachin Ravindra (6) falling cheaply, Devon Conway steadied the ship with a composed 35 from 32 balls. The experienced duo of Kane Williamson (18*) and Daryl Mitchell (19*) ensured a smooth sail to victory with plenty of overs to spare.
Reflections on Group C Outcomes
Both teams were playing their final match of the tournament after failing to qualify from Group C. For New Zealand, ranked fifth globally at the tournament’s start, early losses to Afghanistan and West Indies spelled an unexpectedly early exit, marking a disappointing end for a highly-ranked side.
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