Shubman Gill and Ishan Kishan Power India to 402 Against Afghanistan
India posted a formidable 402-run total against Afghanistan in Lucknow, driven by stellar centuries from Shubman Gill and Ishan Kishan. Despite a late middle-order collapse spurred by Nangeyalia Kharote and Rashid Khan, the massive total remains a dominant statement for the hosts.
Highlights
- •Shubman Gill scored an impressive 154, his first century as ODI captain.
- •Ishan Kishan ended a three-year drought with a blistering 125-run innings.
- •The pair shared a massive 224-run partnership for the third wicket.
- •Nangeyalia Kharote and Rashid Khan led the Afghanistan bowling effort with seven combined wickets.
In a dominant display of batting prowess during their latest outing in Lucknow, the Indian cricket team surged to an imposing total of 402 all out against Afghanistan. The innings was anchored by a magnificent performance from captain Shubman Gill and wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan, who both struck stellar centuries to put the opposition bowlers under immense pressure.
Dominant Partnership Drives India to High Total
Shubman Gill, displaying immense grit, fought through oppressive heat and physical cramps to compile a brilliant 154. His knock was a masterclass in tactical batting, mixing technical precision with powerful strokeplay. This achievement was particularly significant as it marked his first century while serving as the ODI captain. Alongside him, Ishan Kishan finally ended a three-year wait for an ODI hundred, contributing a powerful 125 runs.
The duo forged a blistering 224-run partnership for the third wicket, which lasted just 141 deliveries. Ishan Kishan demonstrated remarkable innovation and confidence, frequently dispatching the ball to the boundary and clearing the ropes with ease. His innings, which lasted 79 balls, included several audacious shots that kept the scoreboard moving at an aggressive pace.
Late Wickets and Afghanistan's Resurgence
Despite the strong foundation laid by the top order, Afghanistan managed to claw their way back into the contest during the final stages of the innings. After the departure of Shubman Gill, who fell while attempting a reverse sweep, the Indian middle order faced a sudden batting collapse. Left-arm spinner Nangeyalia Kharote proved to be the standout bowler for the visitors, claiming 4 wickets for 76 runs. Veteran spinner Rashid Khan also made crucial inroads, accounting for three dismissals.
The collapse saw key players like KL Rahul depart for a first-ball duck, while Shreyas Iyer was unable to capitalize on his positive start, falling for 26. Earlier in the match, opener Yashasvi Jaiswal was dismissed early, and former captain Rohit Sharma, who appeared in fine touch with a fluent 48, was eventually undone by a clever googly from Rashid Khan. Despite the late flurry of wickets, the 402-run total set a daunting challenge for Afghanistan to chase under the demanding conditions in Lucknow.
