India started their three-match series against Afghanistan in T20Is with a convincing victory of seven wickets, which was courtesy of an amazing 82 runs innings hit by Abhishek Sharma.
The win has put India up 1-0 in the ongoing T20I series between India and Afghanistan, which will see its next installment on September 15 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. The series is officially known to be a three-match series in Delhi, according to ICC.
India vs Afghanistan 1st T20I: What Happened?
India won the toss and chose to field first. Afghanistan got off to a bad start and were reduced to 41/4 before Omarzai and Nabi steadied their innings.
Omarzai stayed not out on 64 off 44 balls as Afghanistan made 156/8 in 20 overs.
Arshdeep Singh was the standout bowler of India’s attack, returning figures of 3/19. The other notable wicket takers included Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel and Varun Chakaravarthy.
Abhishek Sharma Scores 82 to Set Up India’s Stunning Victory
In their chase of 157, the early loss of Sanju Samson did little to hinder India in pursuit of victory.
Abhishek Sharma slammed 82 from just 32 balls with the help of seven fours and seven sixes. This was done almost instantly as he took the game away from Afghanistan. Ishan Kishan proved to be a good partner with his 42.
India managed to get to 157/3 in just 13.4 overs.
India vs Afghanistan 2nd T20I: What Happens Next?
As India takes a 1-0 lead, the focus will turn towards the 2nd T20I on September 15. India will hope to win the series, while Afghanistan will have to bounce back in the three-match series.
There are plenty of positives for India from the first T20I, especially the resurgence of Abhishek Sharma and the economical bowling display from Arshdeep Singh.
To Be Updated if There Are Any Developments before the 2nd T20I.
Himanshu
Contributor at DemocraX, covering news, ideas and developments shaping India and the world.