ODI World Cup 2023: New Zealand vs Afghanistan Weather Report and Match Preview

It has not been long since Afghanistan stunned the cricket fraternity by thrashing defending champions England. On Tuesday, the Netherlands also proved what the 'minnows' can do in the league of giants with a historic win over South Africa. As Afghanistan gear up to lock horns against another tournament favourite New Zealand, they will be looking to put up a similar solid performance. 

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The two will meet in Match 16 of the 2023 ODI World Cup at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Wednesday (October 18) from 2 p.m. (IST). Afghanistan have lost two of the three matches they have played - against Bangladesh and India. On the other hand, New Zealand are coming in on the back of three straight wins against England, Netherlands and Bangladesh. 

Weather Report: 

The weather in Chennai is expected to remain partly cloudy on Wednesday, but rain is unlikely to disrupt play in the NZ vs AFG match. The temperature could hover around 25 degrees Celsius to 32 degrees Celsius. Humidity levels are anticipated to be around 73-81 per cent and a wind speed of 12-17 km/h is expected. A complete 50-over game is on the cards for cricket fans.

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Pitch Report:

The pitch at MA Chidambaram Stadium is slower in nature and known for assisting spinners. Considering previous matches, a low-scoring affair is expected between New Zealand and Afghanistan on Wednesday. Batters should start cautiously until they understand the surface behaviour. 

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New Zealand vs Afghanistan Probable XIs:

New Zealand Probable XI: Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Will Young, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham(c/w), Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner, Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, Trent Boult

Afghanistan Probable XI: Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi(c), Mohammad Nabi, Ikram Alikhil(w), Azmatullah Omarzai, Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi