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In a nail-biting encounter at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, India emerged victorious against Afghanistan, clinching the three-match T20I series with a perfect 3-0 scoreline. The third and final match was nothing short of a rollercoaster, featuring stunning performances, a resilient comeback, and even a double super over drama.
Early Struggles and Rohit’s Resurgence
After choosing to bat first, India had a tough start, losing four wickets and reaching a score of 22 in only 4.3 overs. Star players Virat Kohli and Sanju Samson departed for golden ducks, but captain Rohit Sharma showcased his class with a magnificent unbeaten innings of 121* off 69 deliveries. His stellar knock, complemented by Rinku Singh’s explosive 69 off 39, propelled India to a formidable total of 212/4.
Rohit’s Spectacular Show in Bengaluru
Surviving an initial challenging period on a tricky wicket, Rohit Sharma played a near-flawless innings, featuring 11 fours and eight sixes. The experienced opener not only displayed his trademark shots but also introduced some T20-special strokes, including the reverse pull. His outstanding performance in the final T20I before the T20 World Cup was a testament to his skill and leadership.
Afghanistan’s Spirited Chase and Naib’s Heroics
In the run chase, Afghanistan’s Rahmanullah Gurbaz (50 off 32) and Ibrahim Zadran (50 off 41) set the stage with impressive half-centuries. However, it was Gulbadin Naib’s unbeaten 55* off 23 that forced the match into a Super Over. Washington Sundar’s brilliant bowling (3 for 20 in 3 overs) played a crucial role for India, with Avesh Khan and Kuldeep Yadav also chipping in with a wicket each.
Double Super Over Drama
The thrilling contest reached unprecedented heights as the match entered a double super over. Afghanistan set India a target of 17 in the first super over, but the drama continued as India tied the score at 16. In the second super over, India managed only 11, yet Afghanistan lost both their wickets at 1 run, allowing India to secure victory. After Mukesh Kumar bowled the first fantastic over, Ravi Bishnoi, who was given the second over, was instrumental in the exciting conclusion.
In summary, the final T20I between India and Afghanistan was a cricketing spectacle, with Rohit Sharma’s heroics, Rinku Singh’s explosive innings, and the double super-over drama making it a memorable contest. The win not only secured a series sweep for India but also showcased the excitement and unpredictability of T20 cricket at its finest.
