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In a dramatic finish at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, India completed a clean sweep over Afghanistan in the three-match T20I series. The final match was nothing short of a cricketing spectacle, featuring breathtaking performances, a determined Afghanistan fightback, and an unforgettable double Super Over that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
India’s Top-Order Collapse and Rohit Sharma’s Stunning Knock
Beating the toss and opting to bat, India was in deep trouble early on, losing four wickets within the first five overs. Star batter Virat Kohli and Sanju Samson were dismissed for golden ducks, leaving India struggling at 22/4. When Afghanistan seemed to have taken control, Rohit Sharma turned the game around with a sensational knock. The Indian captain displayed his experience and dominance, smashing an unbeaten 121 runs off 69 balls, leading India to a competitive total of 212/4.
Rinku Singh’s Explosive Finish
While Rohit Sharma held one end, young finisher Rinku Singh provided fireworks at the other, scoring 69 off 39 balls. The left-hander played a fearless brand of cricket, taking on Afghanistan’s bowlers in the death overs, ensuring India posted a challenging total. His aggressive stroke play and partnership with Rohit Sharma were crucial in setting a daunting target.
Afghanistan’s Spirited Run Chase
Afghanistan’s batting unit refused to back down, with openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran laying a solid foundation. Both batters scored fighting fifties, with Gurbaz making 50 off 32 balls and Zadran contributing 50 off 41 balls. The chase seemed to slip away when India’s bowlers struck at crucial moments. Still, Gulbadin Naib’s heroic unbeaten 55 off 23 balls brought Afghanistan back into the contest, forcing a Super Over in a stunning finish.
Double Super Over Drama Stuns Bengaluru Crowd
The first Super Over saw Afghanistan set a target of 17 runs. In response, India, led by Rohit Sharma, matched the total with 16 runs, taking the game into a rare double Super Over. With just 11 runs to defend in the second Super Over, Afghanistan faltered under pressure, losing both their wickets for just one run. Ravi Bishnoi bowled a brilliant second Super Over, sealing India’s thrilling victory in one of the most dramatic finishes in T20 cricket history.
Standout Performers
- Rohit Sharma – 121* (69)
- Rinku Singh – 69 (39)
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz – 50 (32)
- Ibrahim Zadran – 50 (41)
- Gulbadin Naib – 55* (23)
- Washington Sundar – 3/20 (3)
- Mukesh Kumar & Ravi Bishnoi – Match-winning Super Overs
India’s T20 Dominance Continues
With this win, India completed a 3-0 series whitewash over Afghanistan, heading into an exciting year of international cricket. The match will be remembered for Rohit Sharma’s historic knock, Rinku Singh’s late fireworks, and a rare double Super Over that showcased the unpredictability and excitement of T20 cricket.
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As India looks ahead to upcoming T20 challenges, this thrilling finish in Bengaluru will remind the team of resilience, firepower, and ability to shine under pressure. The excitement and drama of this series finale will be discussed for years!
