India’s return to ODI cricket after six months began with a commanding bowling display against Afghanistan in Dharamshala.
In a 25-over contest shortened by rain, Afghanistan were bowled out for 194 in 24.5 overs, despite a spirited half-century from Rahmanullah Gurbaz.
The early overs saw India’s pace spearhead Arshdeep Singh strike twice, removing Atal and Rahmat Shah to leave Afghanistan reeling at 27/3. Gurbaz counterattacked with a flurry of sixes, stitching crucial partnerships with captain Hashmatullah Shahidi and all-rounder Gulbadin Naib. His aggressive 50 kept Afghanistan afloat, but wickets tumbled once India’s debutants entered the fray.
Left-arm spinner Harsh Dubey impressed with sharp turn and control, dismissing Shahidi and Omarzai, while Gurnoor Singh Brar’s seam movement accounted for Rashid Khan and Ziaur Rahman. Nitish Kumar Reddy’s pace added further damage, removing Gurbaz and Nabi in quick succession.
Afghanistan’s middle overs revival was undone by a collapse in the death overs, losing five wickets for just 29 runs. The disciplined Indian attack ensured no late flourish, setting up a manageable chase for the hosts.
This series marks India’s experimentation phase ahead of the World Cup, with selectors keen to test bench strength. The debutants’ impactful performances underline India’s depth, while Afghanistan, ranked seventh, will look to regroup quickly after their recent Test defeat.
With India’s batting lineup yet to take the field, the spotlight now shifts to how the hosts approach the chase and whether Afghanistan’s bowlers can mount a comeback.
