• Source:JND
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In the first T20 of the three-match series against Afghanistan, India's fringe players, led by Shivam Dube, played a crucial role in securing a six-wicket victory on Thursday. Afghanistan posted a total of 158 for five, with a significant contribution from the experienced Mohammad Nabi (42 off 27) and young Azmatullah Omarzai (29 off 22) in a lively 68-run partnership.

Despite India dominating the powerplay, the target proved insufficient in favorable batting conditions. Chasing the total, Shivam Dube (60 not out) and Tilak Varma (26 off 22) shared a 44-run stand, bringing momentum to the Indian innings after the early loss of openers Rohit Sharma (0) and Shubman Gill (23).

Rohit Sharma, returning to T20s after 14 months, faced an unfortunate run-out in a mix-up with Gill. Expressing his frustration, Rohit did not hide his disappointment at Gill, who didn't respond to the call for a quick single. However, the partnership between Varma and Dube steered India back on track.

Dube, considered a backup for the injury-prone Hardik Pandya, played efficiently, showcasing disdainful drives on the off side. Jitesh Sharma (31 off 20) and Rinku Singh (16 not out off 9) also contributed as India reached the target in 17.3 overs.

Earlier, Afghanistan faced early setbacks in the powerplay, with Rahamanullah Gurbaz (23 off 28) and skipper Ibrahim Zadran (25 off 22) struggling to find boundaries. Axar Patel emerged as the standout bowler for India, securing figures of 4-0-23-2. A crucial partnership between Nabi and Omarzai propelled Afghanistan to a competitive total.

Despite India dropping three catches in the chilly conditions of Mohali, they managed to secure a win in the opening T20, with opener Yashasvi Jaiswal unavailable due to a sore right groin.