New Zealand face Afghanistan today

NEW DELHI, Oct 17 (Times Of India): Afghanistan's surprising victory over defending champions England has elevated the team's standing, and New Zealand would be wise not to underestimate Hashmatullah Shahidi's side when they face off in their World Cup match on Wednesday.
While the Kiwis aim to maintain their unbeaten streak in the tournament, Afghanistan, buoyed by their impressive 69-run win over England, is eager to create another major upset and steer their campaign firmly on track.
Currently positioned second on the points table, trailing India on net run rate, New Zealand faces the challenge without their charismatic skipper Kane Williamson, who suffered a left thumb fracture during the match against Bangladesh.
Despite this setback, the Kiwis draw on their successful run so far to take on an unpredictable Afghanistan team, which displayed exceptional resilience against England.
In the encounter at Chepauk, where the pitch traditionally aids spin, New Zealand's batting order, featuring Will Young, Devon Conway, and Daryl Mitchell, will need to navigate the threat posed by Afghanistan's spin trio-Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rehman, and Mohammed Nabi.
Pacer Tim Southee, recovering from a thumb injury, could be a vital inclusion.
The Afghan batting, led by in-form opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz, alongside skipper Shahidi, Azmatullah Omarzai, and Ikram Alikhil, presents a challenge for the Kiwi bowlers.
Trent Boult and Matt Henry's pace will be a concern for Afghanistan, while the spin duo of Rachin Ravindra and Mitchell Santner adds an extra dimension to New Zealand's bowling attack.
Although the two teams have met only twice in this format, with New Zealand emerging victorious on both occasions, the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket ensures an exciting and closely contested match.