ndia began their three-match T20I series against Afghanistan with a clinical seven-wicket victory at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sunday, powered by Abhishek Sharma’s explosive 82.
After winning the toss, India restricted Afghanistan to 156/8, with Arshdeep Singh leading the attack with 3/19. Jasprit Bumrah made an impactful return from injury, dismissing Rahmanullah Gurbaz for a duck, while Axar Patel and Varun Chakaravarthy claimed one wicket each. Azmatullah Omarzai kept Afghanistan competitive with an unbeaten 64 off 44 balls, supported by Mohammad Nabi’s 33.
India’s chase, however, was dominated by Abhishek, who smashed 82 off just 32 deliveries, including a rapid half-century from 22 balls. He shared a 121-run partnership with Ishan Kishan, who contributed 42.
India raced to 157/3 in just 13.4 overs, reaching the target with 38 balls remaining. The win gives India a 1-0 lead in the series.
Brief Scores
Afghanistan 156/8 in 20 overs (Azmatullah Omarzai 64 not out, Mohammad Nabi 33; Arshdeep Singh 3-19, Varun Chakaravarthy 1-16)
India 157/3 in 13.4 overs (Abhishek Sharma 82, Ishan Kishan 42; Mohammad Nabi 2-28, Azmatullah Omarzai 1-14)
Player of the Match – Abhishek Sharma