India toppled Afghanistan in the first T20 International match on January 11 after chasing a target total of 159 runs at Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali. The match started off badly for India with skipper Rohit Sharma (0) being run out in the first over and Shubman Gill losing his wicket after 4 overs. Tilak Varma (26) gave quite some thrust but was run out in the 9 th over.

However, a promising partnership unfolded as Shivam Dube and Jitesh Sharma steadied the innings. Unfortunately, Sharma (31) departed in the 14th over. The turning point came with Rinku Singh (16*) entering the scene, and Shivam Dube (60*) achieving his second T20 half-century. This dynamic duo secured India's victory by 6 wickets, putting them ahead 1-0 in the tri-series.

Mujeeb Ur Rahman got two wickets and also Azmatullah Omarzai managed to get one for Afghanistan. Earlier, Afghanistan set a target of 159/5, with Mohammad Nabi top-scoring with a quick 42 off 27 balls. Despite the efforts of skipper Ibrahim Zadran (25) and Rahmanullah Gurbaz (23), India's bowlers, led by Axar Patel (2/23) and Mukesh Kumar (2/33), restricted Afghanistan.

India, under the captaincy of Rohit Sharma, won the toss and chose to bowl first in this T20 encounter. The match showcased a blend of challenges and triumphs, ultimately leading to India's triumphant start in the tri-series.

Picture Credit - Hindustan Times