In the inaugural T20 match of the three-game series, India secured a convincing six-wicket victory over Afghanistan, taking a 1-0 lead on Thursday. The hosts effectively contained Afghanistan to a total of 158 for five and then successfully chased down the target in just 17.3 overs.
Shivam Dube played a pivotal role in steering the chase, delivering an impressive unbeaten 60 from 40 balls. Jitesh Sharma (31), Tilak Verma (26), and Shubman Gill (23) also made valuable contributions to the winning effort. Axar Patel, the left-arm spinner, emerged as the most successful bowler for India, claiming figures of 2/23, while Mukesh Kumar secured 2/33.
For Afghanistan, Mohammad Nabi stood out as the top-scorer, contributing a brisk 42 off 27 balls to bolster the innings. In summary:
Afghanistan: 158/5 in 20 overs (Mohammad Nabi 42; Axar Patel 2/23, Mukesh Kumar 2/33).
India: 159 for four in 17.3 overs (Shivam Dube 60; Mujeev Ur Rahman 2/21).
(With Agency Inputs)
