Rohit Sharma-led Team India lost their Numero Uno spot in the ODI World Cup's points table following New Zealand's stunning win over Afghanistan in Chennai on Wednesday, October 18.
In a display of sheer dominance, the New Zealand cricket team, led by Tom Latham, secured a resounding 149-run triumph over Afghanistan, who recently shocked the reigning champions England.
New Zealand's batting strength shone through as Tom Latham, Glenn Phillips, and Will Young all notched up half-centuries, propelling the team to a challenging total of 288/6. In reply, Afghanistan could only muster 139 runs in 34.4 overs. This comprehensive win further solidified New Zealand's position as the new table toppers of the ODI World Cup 2023.
The New Zealand now stand at the no.1 spot in the points table, having secured four consecutive wins. With eight points to their name and a commendable net run rate of +1.923, they have overtaken India, who currently occupy the second position with six points from three matches and a net run rate of +1.821. Both teams have maintained unbeaten records in the tournament thus far.
Meanwhile, South Africa and Pakistan occupy the third and fourth spots in the top four, each with four points from three matches. South Africa boasts a net run rate of +1.385, while Pakistan's net run rate stands at -0.137.
In contrast, Afghanistan finds themselves in the ninth position in the points table, having accumulated two points from four matches and a net run rate of -1.250.
Riding on brilliant fifties from Will Young, Tom Latham and Glenn Phillips, New Zealand posted a competitive total of 288/6. In reply, Afghanistan batters were of no match to New Zealand as they kept losing wickets in regular interval before perishing on a paltry score of 139, thanks to Mitchell Santner and Lockie Ferguson's three-fers.
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