Indian captain Shubman Gill produced a stunning moment in the rain-shortened first ODI between India and Afghanistan at Dharamshala, pulling off a one-handed screamer that lit up the match as India tightened their grip in a 25-over contest. The catch came at a crucial stage as Afghanistan were trying to recover after a chaotic middle phase, but Gill's sharp reflexes ended another key breakthrough attempt in style.
Gill's Spectacular Grab
The dismissal happened in the 21.4 over when Harsh Dubey tossed one up just outside off. Allah Mohammad Ghazanfar attempted a big shot, only to get a thick top edge that ballooned towards slip. Gill reacted instantly, diving to his left and sticking out one hand to complete a sensational grab, ensuring control as he rolled over on the ground. The batter was out for 0 off 2 balls, and India continued to chip away at the Afghan lower order.
Afghanistan's Innings Unravels
At the end, India bundled out the visitors for 194 in 24.5 overs. Afghanistan had earlier been powered by a brilliant 102 off 51 balls from Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who dominated the powerplay and middle overs with 8 fours and 8 sixes. However, once he fell at 142, the innings unravelled quickly. India's bowlers kept striking at regular intervals. Arshdeep Singh picked up two early wickets, while debutant Gurnoor Brar impressed with three scalps, including Rashid Khan and the final wicket of Zia Ur Rahman Sharifi. Harsh Dubey also claimed three wickets, removing key batters Hashmatullah Shahidi, Azmatullah Omarzai, and Ghazanfar.
Nitish Kumar Reddy contributed two wickets, while Prasidh Krishna and Washington Sundar supported the attack in a disciplined effort. Despite Gurbaz's explosive century, Afghanistan collapsed from 142 for 3 to 194 all out, losing their last seven wickets for just 52 runs.
Match Summary
The first ODI showcased India's clinical bowling and fielding, with Gill's catch being the standout moment. The series continues with the next match scheduled soon.
