India achieved a solid victory against Afghanistan in the first ODI, held at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala on June 13. Due to rain, the match was shortened to 25 overs for each team.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz scored 102 off 51 balls, but the other Afghan batsmen struggled, leading to their team being dismissed for 194 in 24.5 overs. In response, India chased down the target in 22.5 overs, winning by seven wickets. Shubman Gill was not out at 84 off 66 deliveries, and KL Rahul contributed 39* off 19 balls.
Sunil Gavaskar noted that the Indian players are focused on winning rather than individual achievements. He pointed out how KL Rahul took charge and scored significant runs toward the end, even as Gill was nearing his century.
“Before that over from Zia Ur Rahman, he had bowled three overs for just 19 runs. Then KL Rahul took 20 runs off that over. Up until that point, Shubman Gill needed 21 runs for his hundred, while the team still needed about 30 to win. But then Rahul led the charge. This shows that the team prioritizes collective success over personal milestones. Winning the match in the 23rd over highlights their efficiency. The target was challenging, yet they made it seem effortless,” Gavaskar said on JioStar’s ‘Cricket Live’.
Gavaskar also mentioned that Nitish Kumar Reddy is poised to contribute consistently with both bat and ball after taking two wickets in four overs. He specifically praised Reddy’s yorker that dismissed Gurbaz.
“Nitish Kumar Reddy took a crucial wicket of Rahmanullah Gurbaz with an excellent yorker. Nailing yorkers makes a bowler a valuable asset. While some experimental balls may leak runs, those yorkers worked well for him. A delivery right under the bat knocked out the centurion. He shows he can fill the role of a fifth or sixth bowler, offering flexibility to the captain and selectors. ‘Choose me as a batter or bowler; I’m ready.’ This adaptability is a significant advantage,” he added.
Impressive Debut for Gurnoor Brar
Gurnoor Brar made his International debut alongside Harsh Dubey, with both claiming three wickets. However, Brar stood out among the Indian bowlers. The 26-year-old consistently bowled over 145 kph and generated notable bounce, earning praise from Gavaskar.
“I was very impressed with Gurnoor Brar. His line and length were tight, and his pace was commendable. It’s not necessary to swing extravagantly on debut; control is key. His control was excellent for a newcomer. His first ball was in the mid-140s, moving away from the right-hander. Bowing at that speed while maintaining good control is impressive. He has shown promising qualities,” Gavaskar stated.
Graeme Swann shared that the upcoming second ODI at the BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on June 17 will present a tougher challenge for India.
“India won the first ODI comfortably, but the Lucknow match could be more challenging. This pitch can make spin bowlers more effective. The ball grips and turns, creating difficulties for batters. Afghanistan’s spin attack is a strength. If India bats first, facing their spinners on that pitch might lead to a tight, low-scoring match. This series is far from over; Afghanistan has the bowling to create challenges, especially in these conditions. Nevertheless, India has made a solid start,” he noted.