Choosing to bowl first proved to be a successful strategy for the Men in Blue, as they managed to take two wickets within the initial six overs, restricting Afghanistan to 58/2 by the end of the powerplay. Despite the initial aggressive intent from openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz and skipper Ibrahim Zadran, the momentum shifted when Ravi Bishnoi dismissed Gurbaz with a well-placed delivery around off.
Nevertheless, the Afghanistan batting lineup showed resilience, especially through the steady partnership between Gulbadin Naib and Ibrahim Zadran, who maintained the scoreboard with timely boundaries. Subsequently, the visitors faced a setback with quick wickets falling as Bishnoi, Axar Patel, and Shivam Dube dismantled the middle order, leaving the score at 109/5 after 15 overs.
A late 30-run partnership between Karim Janat and Mujeeb Ur Rahman in the death overs helped Afghanistan reach a competitive total of 172, their highest-ever T20I score against India. India’s batting, however, started on a challenging note as skipper Rohit Sharma departed for a golden duck, attempting what seemed like a premeditated shot.
Virat Kohli’s quick cameo of 26 and Yashasvi Jaiswal’s impressive display, including three massive sixes, brought the score to 69/2 by the end of the powerplay. Despite Naveen Ul Haq dismissing Kohli, there was a friendly moment of camaraderie between the two on the field. The hero from the previous T20I, Shivam Dube, once again played a crucial role, forming a substantial partnership with Jaiswal.
Up, Up and Away!
— BCCI (@BCCI) January 14, 2024
Three consecutive monstrous SIXES from Shivam Dube 🔥 🔥🔥#INDvAFG @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/3y40S3ctUW
Jaiswal reached his second half-century in 27 balls, while Dube showcased aggression, reaching his fifty in just 22 balls. Although Afghanistan managed to dismiss Jaiswal and wicketkeeper Jitesh Sharma in quick succession, Dube remained relentless, finishing unbeaten with 63 off 32 balls. His stellar performance guided India to a six-wicket victory, securing the series 2-0 ahead of the final game scheduled for January 17 in Bengaluru.