Lucknow, June 17, 2026: Shubman Gill and Ishan Kishan lit up the Ekana Cricket Stadium with magnificent centuries as India posted a mammoth 402 before bowling out Afghanistan for 232, winning by a commanding 170 runs. This victory gives Shubman Gill his first series win as India’s ODI captain and puts the hosts in an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.
Batting Masterclass: Gill & Kishan Dominate
Opting to bat first after losing the toss, India got off to a solid start. Yashasvi Jaiswal fell early, but captain Shubman Gill (batting at No. 3) and Ishan Kishan forged a massive 224-run partnership that set the tone for the innings.
- Shubman Gill remained unbeaten in spirit with a classy 154 off 110 balls, featuring 22 fours and 2 sixes. His innings was a masterclass in timing and placement, marking another standout performance in an already prolific year.
- Ishan Kishan returned to form explosively with 125 off 79 balls, smashing 14 fours and 7 sixes. His aggressive approach perfectly complemented Gill’s elegance.
Rohit Sharma provided the early momentum with a brisk 48 off 39 balls, while other contributions helped India reach their highest ODI total against Afghanistan. The innings ended at 402 all out in 49.5 overs.
Afghanistan’s Chase: Valiant but Futile
Chasing 403 was always going to be a tall order. Afghanistan showed glimpses of fight, led by Rahmat Shah’s resilient 79 off 89 balls. However, they couldn’t build substantial partnerships against India’s varied attack.
India’s bowlers shared the spoils effectively:
- Gurnoor Brar impressed with a three-wicket haul (3/60), including key dismissals like Afghanistan skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi. His fiery yorkers and back-to-back performances stood out.
- Arshdeep Singh delivered a clinical spell of 3/45.
- Debutant Prince Yadav claimed the final wicket with a peach of a delivery, sealing the win in style. Other contributions came from Kuldeep Yadav and Washington Sundar.
Afghanistan were bowled out for 232 in 44.3 overs, with several notable wickets highlighted in the BCCI video, including those of Rashid Khan, AM Ghazanfar, and others.
Key Highlights from the Match
The official highlights capture the electrifying moments:
- Massive sixes and boundaries from Gill and Kishan.
- Gurnoor Brar’s fiery yorker and three-fers.
- Prince Yadav’s perfect maiden wicket.
- Arshdeep Singh’s clinical spell.
- Rahmat Shah’s fighting knock and eventual dismissal.
Post-Match Significance
This win not only secures the series for India but also boosts confidence ahead of the final ODI in Chennai on June 20. Gill’s leadership and the depth shown by both batters and bowlers (including debutants) signal strong preparations for future challenges like the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Player of the Match: Shubman Gill for his match-defining 154.
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Watch Full Highlights: BCCI.tv highlights
