NEW DELHI, SEP 15 (PTI): India produced a commanding performance to defeat Afghanistan by seven wickets in the second T20 International, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.
Chasing a target of 160, India’s batting lineup made light work of the Afghan attack, reaching 163 for 3 in just 14.5 overs, with 31 balls to spare. The star of the chase was Sanju Samson, who top-scored with a blistering 57 off 22 balls, showcasing aggressive strokeplay that included boundaries all around the ground. His innings set the tone for India’s dominance.
Supporting Samson was Abhishek Sharma, who smashed four sixes and two fours in his rapid 39 off 19 balls. His explosive batting ensured India maintained a high run rate throughout the chase. Ishan Kishan anchored the innings with a composed unbeaten 38 off 23 balls, striking three fours and two sixes to guide India home comfortably. Earlier, Afghanistan posted 159 for 8 in their allotted 20 overs. Their innings was built around Ibrahim Zadran’s 37 and Rashid Khan’s quickfire 28. However, India’s bowlers kept the scoring in check. Nitish Kumar Reddy impressed with figures of 3 for 24, while Arshdeep Singh chipped in with 2 for 35.
Afghanistan’s bowling highlight came from Rashid Khan, who picked up all three Indian wickets, finishing with 3 for 36. Despite his efforts, the Afghan side struggled to contain India’s aggressive batting display.
With this victory, India not only sealed the series but also demonstrated their depth in both batting and bowling. The final match of the series will provide an opportunity for India to complete a clean sweep, while Afghanistan will look to salvage pride.
Brief scores: Afghanistan 159/8 in 20 overs (Ibrahim Zadran 37, Rashid Khan 28; Arshdeep Singh 2/35, Nitish Kumar Reddy 3/24) lost to India 163/3 in 14.5 overs (Sanju Samson 57, Abhishek Sharma 39, Ishan Kishan 38 not out; Rashid Khan 3/36) by 7 wickets.
