Can Afghanistan show their new-improved self to stop the Kiwis from making it three in three? © Cricbuzz

Afghanistan v New Zealand, 8th March 2015

The first-ever encounter between Afghanistan and New Zealand at the World Cup level turned out to be a rather one-sided affair. Opting to bat first at the McLean Park, Afghanistan never really got going and quickly found themselves in the doldrums at 59 for 6. Half-centuries from Samiullah Shenwari (110-ball 54) and Najibullah Zadran (56-ball 56) ensured that the team didn't fold up for a two-digit score. While the former was happy to play anchor, the latter launched a swift counter-attack in an 86-run stand for the seventh wicket. For the hosts, Daniel Vettori spun a web around the Afghanistan batting line-up, returning with figures of 4 for 18 from his 10 overs.

Set a target of 187, Brendon McCullum was off the blocks in a hurry, making a 19-ball 42. Martin Guptill then held the innings together with a 57 while Kane Williamson made 33. The hosts eventually sailed past the target in the 37th over to keep their unbeaten run going.