In a breathtaking end to the T20I series, India emerged victorious against Afghanistan in a double super-over thriller at Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.
The win not only sealed the third match but also completed a 3-0 series sweep for the hosts. The riveting encounter showcased cricket at its most dramatic, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.
Chasing a challenging target of 212 runs set by India, Afghanistan’s spirited chase took the game to the wire.
Gulbadin Naib played a heroic role, steering the visitors to a tie in regular overs. Needing 36 off the final two overs and 19 in the last, Naib’s powerful hitting kept the hopes alive, forcing the match into a Super Over.
The drama continued in the first Super Over, where Rohit Sharma’s exceptional hitting matched Afghanistan’s efforts, resulting in yet another tie.
The tension was palpable as the game entered an unprecedented second Super Over.
In the second Super Over, Ravi Bishnoi emerged as India’s hero, defending 12 runs with composure.
Bishnoi’s tight bowling restricted Afghanistan, ensuring India’s triumph in the double super-over saga and securing a 3-0 series victory.
Indian skipper Rohit Sharma played a captain’s knock, registering his highest T20I score with an unbeaten 121.
His innings, adorned with 11 fours and eight sixes, showcased exceptional leadership and composure, rescuing India from a precarious position at 22/4.
Rohit found a valuable partner in Rinku Singh, who played a sensational innings of 69 not out off 39 balls, contributing significantly to a massive 190-run partnership.
Afghanistan’s chase, marked by Mohammad Nabi’s explosive 33 off 12 balls and Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s half-century, displayed resilience.
However, the Indian bowlers, led by Washington Sundar, maintained control, curbing the momentum of the Afghan batting lineup.
The thrilling victory underscored India’s depth and resilience in the T20 format. While the team’s biggest T20I win by runs remains a 168-run triumph at Ahmedabad, this win showcased their ability to bounce back strongly after early setbacks.
The double super over drama will be etched in the annals of T20 cricket history, adding another chapter to the riveting encounters between India and Afghanistan.
India’s comprehensive series sweep reaffirms their prowess in the shortest format, setting a confident tone for future T20 challenges.
The night in Bengaluru will be remembered for its intensity, excitement, and the indomitable spirit displayed by both teams.
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