Date: October 11, 2023
In a high-octane clash in Delhi at the ICC Cricket World Cup, India faced off against Afghanistan, setting the cricketing world on fire with thrilling action. The live score updates had fans on the edge of their seats, and it was a match filled with incredible highlights.
A Thrilling Encounter
Afghanistan’s captain, Hashmatullah Shahidi, alongside Azmatullah Omarzai, displayed their prowess with the fifties as they pushed Afghanistan to post 272/8 in their 50 overs. The pick of the Indian bowlers was none other than Jasprit Bumrah, who finished with figures of 4/39.
Rohit Sharma’s Record Century
The highlight of the game was undoubtedly Rohit Sharma’s scintillating century, which laid the foundation for India’s dominant victory. Rohit’s breathtaking 131 off 84 balls set the stage on fire. Virat Kohli played a crucial role, steering India to a comfortable win with an unbeaten half-century. India chased down 273 in just 35 overs, marking a resounding win and propelling them to the second spot in the points table.
Bumrah’s Stellar Bowling
Jasprit Bumrah was the unsung hero for India, returning impressive figures of 4/39 in his 10 overs. His remarkable performance played a pivotal role in limiting Afghanistan to 272/8. Shahidi and Omarzai’s partnership of 121 runs for the fourth wicket was a crucial point in Afghanistan’s innings, rescuing them after an early top-order collapse.
Team Strategies and Changes
Afghanistan had won the toss and opted to bat first, sticking to their unchanged combination. On the other side, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma mentioned that they preferred to bowl first, taking the dew factor into consideration. A noteworthy change in the Indian side was the inclusion of all-rounder Shardul Thakur, replacing Ravichandran Ashwin.
Continuing Momentum
After a hard-fought win against Australia, India was eager to maintain their winning momentum in the mega tournament. Their victory against Australia was characterized by remarkable performances from KL Rahul and Virat Kohli. Unfortunately, India was without the services of Shubman Gill, who was recovering from dengue and had not traveled with the team to New Delhi.
Ishan Kishan’s Role
With Shubman Gill absent, Ishan Kishan was expected to retain his place in the playing XI, despite a recent duck against Australia. The expectations were high for the India vs Afghanistan clash, with the Arun Jaitley Stadium pitch known for its batting-friendly conditions, as demonstrated in a previous clash where over 700 runs were scored.
Head-to-Head ODI Record
The ODI head-to-head record between India and Afghanistan showed India’s clear advantage, with two wins and one tied match. Afghanistan, still in search of their first ODI victory against the Men in Blue, approached this fixture with determination.
Rohit’s Star Performance
The match was a spectacle of Rohit Sharma’s greatness, as he notched his record-breaking 7th World Cup century, guiding India to an eight-wicket victory. With Rohit’s remarkable 131, Ishan Kishan’s run-a-ball 47, and Virat Kohli’s unbeaten half-century, India comfortably chased down the target of 273 in just 35 overs. Jasprit Bumrah, on a batting-friendly wicket, put on a commendable display with the ball, finishing with four wickets. Although Afghanistan recovered from early setbacks to post a competitive 272/8, it fell short in the end.
The clash between India and Afghanistan was nothing short of thrilling, showcasing record-breaking performances and exceptional cricketing moments that will be etched in the memories of fans. #INDvsAFG #ICCWC2023 #CricketHighlights #RohitCentury https://www.sportiwe.com/
