World Cup 2023, New Zealand vs Afghanistan: Chennai, MA Chidambaram Stadium weather and pitch report

New Zealand will take on Afghanistan at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on 18 October. New Zealand have been unbeaten in the tournament so far and are currently second on the points table. In contrast, Afghanistan come into this match after a stunning win over England — they have won one out of three matches so far and occupy the sixth position.

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In their last match against Bangladesh, New Zealand won the toss and opted to field. Bangladesh lost early wickets, but then, they were brought on track by the experienced pair of Mushfiqur Rahim and Shakib Al Hasan. However, New Zealand have an attack for all conditions and they restricted Bangladesh to only 245. Chasing down this total, New Zealand also lost an early wicket but then resurrected the innings and clinched an easy eight-wicket win.

Afghanistan, on the other hand, were at their best in the recent clash against England. Afghanistan had a strong start, as their opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz took control and smashed 80 runs up front. There was a collapse in the middle order, but lower order surge saw them post 284 runs. On a track that offered assistance to the spinners, England never got going and went on to lose the match by 69 runs.

New Zealand vs Afghanistan, Chennai weather forecast

As per the weather forecast, there is no chance of any rain on Wednesday, 18 October in Chennai. The weather is anticipated to be partly sunny, with the daytime temperature reaching a maximum of 32°C. It will later drop down to 29°C, but the evening will be very humid as it could range between 70-75 per cent.

New Zealand vs Afghanistan, Chennai pitch report

The pitches at Chepauk have been assisting spinners in the two matches so far. The first match between India and Australia had considerable assistance for the spinners, while the second match did have some assistance for the pacers as well as the batters.

Spin is expected to continue playing a significant role in the upcoming match and this is where, both sides with a variety of spinners can come into their own and decide the course of the match.