This T20I marked Rohit’s return to the format in international cricket, having last represented India in a T20I in November 2022 during the T20 World Cup in Australia. Rohit’s innings, however, was abruptly cut short as he was run out on the second ball of India’s chase of 159.
Unlucky dismissal of Rohit Sharma
Rohit was yet to open his account when, on the second delivery of the Indian innings, he pushed Fazalhaq Farooqi‘s fuller-length ball towards the off-side. Rohit ran the length of the pitch, and even as the fielder at mid-off Ibrahim Zadran didn’t receive the ball in the first attempt, Rohit’s opening partner Gill didn’t leave the crease at the other end. A horrible mix-up followed as Rohit and Gill were both at the non-striker’s end, resulting in Rahmanullah Gurbaz, the wicketkeeper, dislodging the bails to dismiss Rohit.
Rohit’s frustration: Displeasure at Shubman Gill
Expressing his frustration, Rohit could be heard on the stump mic reprimanding Gill for the misunderstanding. Gill, attempting to explain, faced Rohit’s fury as the captain returned to the dressing room. Despite the turbulent start, Gill later showcased his batting prowess, contributing significantly with five boundaries before being stumped off Mujeeb Ur Rahman for 23 runs off 12 balls.
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Shivam Dube’s heroics lead India’s recovery
Despite the early setback, Shivam Dube‘s unbeaten 60 off 40 balls emerged as the cornerstone of India’s successful chase. Dube’s calculated aggression and resilience steered the team to victory. Alongside contributions from Jitesh Sharma and Tilak Varma, Dube orchestrated a recovery that overshadowed the early hiccups, securing a comprehensive six-wicket win for India.
Afghanistan’s battling performance and India’s bowling impact
Earlier in the match, the Afghan side exhibited determination to post a competitive 158/5. Mohammad Nabi‘s top-score of 42 and contributions from Azmatullah Omarzai and others set the stage. In response, Mukesh Kumar, Akshar Patel and Dube’s bowling efforts for India played a crucial role in restricting Afghanistan. The bowlers managed to dismantle the opposition’s lineup and set the stage for India’s successful chase.
Also READ: Twitter reactions: Shivam Dube, bowlers sizzle in India’s emphatic win over Afghanistan in 1st T20I
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