Chasing 187 to win at McLean Park in Napier, Martin Guptill hit 57 and skipper Brendon McCullum a 19-ball 42 as runaway Pool A leaders New Zealand, who had already made sure of their last-eight place, reached their target in 37 over.
Tournament debutants Afghanistan slipped to a fourth defeat in five matches after they were bowled out for 186 in the 47th over batting first. Black Caps´ veteran spinner Daniel Vettori took four for 18 to become the first New Zealand bowler to take more than 300 ODI wickets.
Najibullah Zadran top scored for Afghanistan with 56 while Samiullah Shenwari made 54 to help rescue their team from the dire position of 59 for six earlier in their innings.
“Both teams wanted to bat first, but we got off to a good start,” said man-of-the-match Vettori.
“The pitch was a bit worn, it is usually pristine here. The World Cup is a lot of fun, being at home is an experience we will never forget.”
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