Afghanistan vs India Take 1-0 Lead in Three-Match Series After Seven-Wicket Win Over Afghanistan
India made a strong start to the ODI series against Afghanistan, securing a convincing seven-wicket victory in the opening match at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamshala. The contest, affected by rain and reduced to 25 overs per side, saw India chase down a target of 195 with more than two overs to spare.
Leading the charge was captain Shubman Gill, who remained unbeaten on 84 and anchored the chase with a composed yet attacking innings. His performance ensured India crossed the finish line comfortably and gained a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
Rain Disrupts Start but Match Goes Ahead
The opening ODI of the Afghanistan vs India series faced uncertainty due to persistent rain in Dharamshala. Weather conditions delayed the toss and forced officials to reduce the match to 25 overs per side.
Ground staff worked continuously to keep the playing surface ready as rain showers moved across the venue. Despite concerns that the match could be abandoned, conditions improved enough for play to begin later in the day.
After winning the toss, India opted to field first, a decision that appeared logical given the overcast conditions and the shortened nature of the game.
The match also provided opportunities for fresh faces, with Harsh Dubey and Gurnoor Brar making their international debuts for India.
Early Breakthroughs Put Afghanistan Under Pressure
India’s bowlers made an immediate impact by removing Afghanistan’s top-order batters cheaply. Ibrahim Zadran managed only one run before being dismissed, while Sediqullah Atal departed without scoring.
At 16 for 2, Afghanistan appeared to be struggling against disciplined Indian bowling. However, wicketkeeper-batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz had different plans.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz Produces Stunning Counterattack
Gurbaz turned the game around with one of the most explosive innings seen in recent ODI cricket. Taking advantage of the powerplay and attacking from the outset, he punished both pace and spin.
The Afghan opener raced to his half-century in just 25 deliveries, striking boundaries at will and putting the Indian attack under pressure. He continued his aggressive approach and soon reached a remarkable century from only 48 balls.
His innings featured eight fours and eight sixes, showcasing his ability to dominate bowling attacks in limited-overs cricket. Gurbaz eventually scored 102 runs from 51 deliveries before being bowled by Nitish Kumar Reddy.
For much of Afghanistan’s innings, Gurbaz single-handedly carried the batting effort and gave his side a competitive total despite the lack of substantial contributions from several teammates.
Useful Contributions Help Afghanistan Reach 194
While Gurbaz provided the foundation, captain Hashmatullah Shahidi added 27 runs and Azmatullah Omarzai contributed a quick 26 featuring three sixes.
Veteran all-rounder Mohammad Nabi chipped in with a useful cameo, but India’s bowlers continued to pick up wickets at regular intervals.
Nitish Kumar Reddy impressed with crucial breakthroughs, while debutant Harsh Dubey also made an impact by claiming important wickets in the middle overs. As Afghanistan pushed for late runs, India managed to restrict the damage and bowled out the visitors for 194 in 24.5 overs.
Given the shortened format, the total presented a competitive challenge, particularly on a surface that offered opportunities for both batters and bowlers.
India Begin Chase Positively
India’s chase started briskly, with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill looking to make full use of the fielding restrictions.
Rohit played a few attractive shots but was run out for 16, ending an opening partnership that had provided India with early momentum. Despite the setback, India remained in control thanks to Gill’s calm presence at the crease.
Ishan Kishan then joined the captain and maintained the scoring rate. The left-hander played an aggressive innings of 34 from 22 balls, hitting boundaries and keeping pressure on Afghanistan’s bowlers.
The partnership helped India move past the 100-run mark and put the chase firmly on track before Rashid Khan dismissed Kishan.
Gill Anchors the Innings
With wickets falling at intervals, Gill ensured there was no panic in the Indian camp. The right-hander mixed caution with aggression, rotating the strike effectively while punishing loose deliveries.
He reached his half-century from just 37 balls, highlighting the confidence and form that have made him one of India’s most dependable batters across formats.
Gill’s innings included elegant strokeplay through the off side as well as powerful shots over the boundary. Importantly, he adapted his approach according to the match situation, accelerating when required and controlling the chase when wickets fell.
Shreyas Iyer briefly supported him with 12 runs before departing, but Afghanistan never managed to create sustained pressure.
India Seal Victory With Ease
As the target drew closer, Gill continued to lead from the front. He remained unbeaten on 84 and guided India home in 22.5 overs with seven wickets in hand.
The successful chase highlighted India’s batting depth and ability to handle pressure in shortened matches. While Afghanistan produced moments of brilliance, particularly through Gurbaz’s century, India’s overall balance proved decisive.
The victory gives the hosts a valuable advantage in the series and plenty of positives heading into the next match.
Key Performers of the Match
Shubman Gill (India)
84* runs
Match-winning unbeaten innings
Led the chase as captain
Helped India secure a comfortable victory
Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Afghanistan)
102 runs from 51 balls
Eight fours and eight sixes
One of the fastest and most entertaining centuries by an Afghan batter
Kept Afghanistan competitive despite early wickets
Nitish Kumar Reddy (India)
Picked up important wickets, including Gurbaz
Contributed significantly with the ball during key phases
Also read: Hardik Pandya Injured During Fitness Test, Ruled Out of Afghanistan ODI Series
What’s Next in the Afghanistan vs India Series?
The opening match of the Afghanistan vs India ODI series delivered plenty of excitement despite weather interruptions. India will enter the second ODI with confidence after a comprehensive victory, while Afghanistan will look to build on the positives from Gurbaz’s outstanding knock.
The second match of the three-game series is scheduled to be played in Lucknow on June 17. Afghanistan will need stronger contributions from the middle order and a more disciplined bowling performance if they hope to level the series.
For India, the focus will be on maintaining momentum and sealing the series with another strong performance. With several players showing good form and young talents making an impression, the hosts will be eager to continue their winning run and wrap up the contest before the final ODI.
