Shubman Gill’s 76 and a disciplined bowling effort helped India chase down 195 after Afghanistan slipped from a commanding position despite Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s century
Dharamsala: India registered a comfortable seven-wicket victory over Afghanistan in the opening ODI, chasing down a target of 195 in just 22.5 overs to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
Afghanistan looked set for a much bigger total after opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz produced a breathtaking 102 off 49 balls, smashing eight fours and eight sixes. At 141/3 in the 15th over, the visitors appeared in control. However, India staged a remarkable comeback as the middle order collapsed under pressure.
Nitish Kumar Reddy (2 wickets), Shivam Dubey (2), and debutant Gurnoor Brar (3) led the fightback, restricting Afghanistan to 194 all out in 24.5 overs. Hashmatullah Shahidi contributed 27, while Azmatullah Omarzai added a quick 26.
In reply, India made an aggressive start despite Rohit Sharma being run out for 16 following a mix-up with Gill. Shubman Gill anchored the chase with a fluent 76, including a half-century off 38 balls, while Ishan Kishan chipped in with 34 from 22 deliveries.
Although Rashid Khan dismissed Kishan and Sharifi removed Shreyas Iyer for 12, Afghanistan never managed to regain control. KL Rahul then finished the contest in style with an unbeaten 39, striking three fours and two sixes.
Reflecting on the win, Player of the Match and captain Shubman Gill said, “The way we pulled the game back in the middle overs and at the death was brilliant. The debutants were very impressive.”
The teams will now travel to Lucknow for the second ODI on June 17.
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