Mohali, India: Afghanistan put on a fighting display to post a competitive 158/5 against India in the first T20I of the three-match series here today. Put in to bat, the visitors got off to a cautious start before Ibrahim Zadran (48) and Najibullah Zadran (46) provided the much-needed impetus in the middle overs. The duo stitched a crucial 68-run partnership, taking advantage of some loose bowling from the Indian pacers.
Karim Janat (22) and Mohammad Nabi (15*) added valuable contributions in the final overs to propel Afghanistan past the 150-run mark. For India, Bhuvneshwar Kumar (2/31) and Yuzvendra Chahal (1/20) were the pick of the bowlers, but they lacked support from the other end.
Chasing 159 will be a stern test for the Indian batting line-up, especially with skipper Rohit Sharma (rested) not featuring today. KL Rahul and Ishan Kishan will open the innings, hoping to lay a solid foundation for the likes of Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer to finish the job. The stage is set for a thrilling encounter as India look to start the series on a winning note.
Key Points:
- Afghanistan: 158/5 in 20 overs (Ibrahim Zadran 48, Najibullah Zadran 46)
- India: To chase 159
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar (2/31) and Yuzvendra Chahal (1/20) took wickets for India.
- Rohit Sharma rested for India, KL Rahul and Ishan Kishan to open.
Stay tuned for updates on the Indian chase and the result of the 1st T20I!
