Desk Report, January 18, 2024 – In a pulsating encounter at Bangalore’s Chinnaswamy Stadium, India emerged victorious against Afghanistan in the 3rd T20, clinching the series with a win in the second super over. The high-stakes match, though inconsequential for the series and the upcoming T20 World Cup squad selection, provided an enthralling display of cricket.
Afghanistan, already trailing in the series, managed to level the game and force a super over, only to witness India secure the win in the subsequent six-ball decider. Ravi Bishnoi played a pivotal role, defending a target of 11 by dismissing Mohammad Nabi and Rahmanullah Gurbaz.
Despite being a non-decisive encounter, the match unfolded with gripping drama, lasting almost four and a half hours and featuring two sets of Super Overs. Noteworthy moments included batsmen strategizing for extra runs, Rohit Sharma retiring himself out to expedite running between wickets, and occasional tempers flaring between the usually amicable India and Afghanistan teams.
The final scores were tied at 212 after the regulation 20 overs each, followed by another tie at 16 in the first set of Super Overs. In a nail-biting finish, Afghanistan restricted India to 11 in the subsequent Super Over, only to face a stunning comeback by leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi, who secured two wickets in three balls, sealing India’s victory in the extended thriller.
