Shubman Gill played a stellar knock of 78 runs, guiding India to a comfortable seven-wicket victory over Afghanistan in the first One-Day International. The debutants also made significant contributions, helping the team chase down the target with ease.
Gill anchors the chase
Opening the innings, Gill displayed a masterclass in batting, anchoring the chase with a composed innings. He was ably supported by Ishan Kishan, who returned to the ODI squad after almost three years, scoring a brisk 34 off 22 balls. KL Rahul also chipped in with a crucial knock to ensure India crossed the line without much trouble.
Debutants shine
The Indian team management handed debuts to a couple of promising players, who seized the opportunity with impressive performances. Their contributions with both bat and ball added depth to the side and gave the selectors plenty to think about for the upcoming matches.
Afghanistan, after being put in to bat, posted a competitive total, but the Indian bowlers struck at regular intervals to keep them in check. The debutants played a key role in restricting the Afghan batsmen, picking up crucial wickets at important junctures.
In response, India lost an early wicket but Gill's steady hand ensured there were no further hiccups. His partnership with Kishan laid the foundation, and KL Rahul's finishing touches sealed the win with overs to spare.
The victory gives India a 1-0 lead in the three-match series, with the second ODI scheduled to be played at the same venue.
