Afghanistan wrap up Kiwi tour with triumph

KABUL on Thursday defeated a first class domestic cricket club in a one-day match by 16 runs, an official said.

Afghanistan played their last practice match against the Northern Districts Cricket Team, one of six first class cricket teams that make up New Zealand national squad.

Currently on a trip to Australia and New Zealand as part their preparations in the lead-up to the World Cup next year, the Afghans batted first and managed to score 264 runs in the stipulated 50 overs for the loss of eight wickets.

Afghanistan Cricket Board spokesman Farid Hotak told Pajhwok Afghan News Asghar Stanikzai top-scored with a quick fire 63 that included six sixes.

Osman Ghani contributed 44 runs to the side, Najibullah Zadran 41, Mohammad Nabi 37, Samiullah Shinwari 32 and Nawroz Mangal 27.

The Northern Knights fell 16 runs short of the target and lost nine wickets to Afghan bowlers after playing all the overs.

Afghanistan have so far played eight matches in Australia and New Zealand, winning four and losing as many.

Expert Rahim Gul Sarwan said the trip to Australia and New Zealand had been successful in terms of becoming familiar with grounds and environment there.

He said the practice matches would prove beneficial for the Afghans because the World Cup would be played in the two countries next year. He praised the national side for exhibiting well in Australia and New Zealand

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