Lockie Ferguson produced the most economical return in T20 World Cup2024 history, bowling his maximum permitted four overs without conceding a run against Papua New Guinea (PNG). The New Zealand pacer’s performance in the Group C World Cup match on Monday was nothing short of magical, as he returned with figures of 4-4-0-3, leading his team to bowl out PNG for a mere 78 runs.
Record-Breaking Spell
Lockie Ferguson’s spell was historic. He became only the second bowler in T20 International history to bowl four maidens in a row. Canada’s Saad Bin Zafar was the first to achieve this feat with figures of 4-4-0-2 against Panama in November 2021 during the T20 World Cup Americas Region Qualifier. Ferguson’s performance not only matched this incredible feat but also bettered it by taking three wickets.
PNG’s Struggle Against New Zealand’s Bowling
New Zealand’s bowlers were in top form, restricting PNG’s batters throughout their innings. The PNG team managed to score only 78 runs, getting all out in 19.4 overs. The first half of their innings saw only four boundaries, reflecting their struggle against the disciplined New Zealand attack.
Trent Boult, playing his last T20 World Cup2024 match, started with a tight two-run over. However, it was Tim Southee who struck first, dismissing PNG opener Tony Ura, caught at deep backward point.
Ferguson’s Dominance
Lockie Ferguson’s impact was immediate. On his very first ball, he dismissed PNG skipper Assad Vala, caught at widish first slip for six. Ferguson’s pace and accuracy made it extremely difficult for PNG batters to score. Remarkably, they couldn’t score a single run off Ferguson’s first three overs.
Ferguson claimed his second wicket by trapping Charles Amini (17) in front of the wickets. His third wicket came when Chad Soper (1) inside-edged the ball onto his stumps, failing to cope with Ferguson’s relentless pressure. Ferguson ended his spell with astonishing figures, ensuring no runs were scored off his bowling.
Support from Other Bowlers
Mitchell Santner also contributed significantly, dismissing Sese Bau (12) after luring him to attempt a big shot, only to be caught by Finn Allen at long-on. Santner’s tight bowling kept PNG under pressure, helping maintain New Zealand’s dominance.
Trent Boult returned to claim his first wicket of the match, cleaning up Hiri Hiri (7). Tim Southee continued his excellent form by dismissing wicketkeeper Kiplin Doriga (5), further diminishing PNG’s chances of putting up a competitive score.
Final Wrap-Up
Ish Sodhi, who had worked hard for success in his first three overs, eventually grabbed two wickets in the final over to wrap up the PNG innings. His figures of 2/29 added to the collective effort of the New Zealand bowlers, ensuring a comprehensive performance.
Lockie Ferguson’s record-breaking spell was the highlight of the match, showcasing his exceptional skill and control. His performance, supported by the disciplined efforts of his teammates, led New Zealand to a convincing win over Papua New Guinea. The Kiwis will look to carry this momentum forward in their quest for T20 World Cup2024 glory.
As Ferguson joins the ranks of T20 legends with his incredible feat, cricket fans worldwide will remember this match as a testament to his talent and the relentless spirit of the New Zealand bowling attack.
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