(Image Source: PTI)
[Saba Sports News] India secured a six-wicket victory over Afghanistan in the opening T20I of their three-match series on January 11 at the Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali. Afghanistan set a target of 159, scoring 158/5 in 20 overs. In response, India reached the target in 17.3 overs, thanks to Shivam Dube’s unbeaten 60 off 40 balls.
Axar Patel led India’s bowling effort with figures of 2/23 in four overs, dismissing Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Rahmat Shah. Patel faced challenges due to the cold conditions in Mohali, struggling with ball grip. He humorously mentioned in a post-game chat that he
asked the umpire if he could bowl wearing a glove on one hand, but was denied permission.
“It was very cold, and I wasn’t feeling the ball. Despite the dew, I concentrated on bowling accurately,” Patel said.
Patel has been in excellent form in T20Is, taking 38 wickets in 34 innings since 2021, with an average of 23.78 and an economy rate of 7.53. His recent performance includes 3/16 against Australia in Raipur, contributing to India’s series win.
Shivam Dube shone in the match, earning the Player of the Match for his all-round performance. He took 1/9 in two overs, including the wicket of Afghanistan’s captain Ibrahim Zadran, and then anchored India’s chase with an unbeaten 60, hitting five fours and two sixes.