Picture Credit: BCCI
India wrapped up a commanding ODI series sweep against Afghanistan with a nine-wicket victory in the third and final match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
The hosts chased down 219 with ease, reaching the target in just 28.4 overs and finishing the series unbeaten.
The foundation for India’s victory was laid by fast bowler Prasidh Krishna, who delivered a superb spell of 5 for 23 from nine overs. His pace and movement troubled Afghanistan throughout the innings and helped bowl out the visitors for 218 in 44.2 overs.
Despite the collapse around him, Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi produced a resilient innings of 102, while Azmatullah Omarzai contributed 50 to lift the total beyond 200.
India’s chase got off to an ideal start as Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal dominated the Afghan attack.
The opening pair stitched together a 170-run partnership, effectively putting the match beyond Afghanistan’s reach.
Jaiswal displayed remarkable composure and attacking intent, reaching his century from 83 deliveries. His unbeaten 110 included 14 fours and three sixes and marked his second ODI hundred in only his third innings.
Rohit complemented him perfectly with a fluent 79, bringing up his half-century in 47 balls before falling to Mohammad Nabi.
Following Rohit’s dismissal, Shreyas Iyer joined Jaiswal as India comfortably completed the chase.
Afghanistan struggled to create opportunities, with fielding lapses adding to their difficulties.
The convincing victory also secured India’s first ODI series triumph under captain Shubman Gill, providing another positive milestone for the team.
Brief Scores
Afghanistan 218 all out (Hashmatullah Shahidi 102, Azmatullah Omarzai 50; Prasidh Krishna 5-23) lost to India 224/1 (Yashasvi Jaiswal 110*, Rohit Sharma 79) by nine wickets.
Also Read: Prasidh Krishna’s Five-For Overshadows Shahidi’s Century As Afghanistan Post 218
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