India sealed their three-match T20I series against Afghanistan with a commanding seven-wicket victory in Delhi on Tuesday, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead.
Sanju Samson produced a blistering innings of 57 from just 22 balls, smashing seven fours and four sixes as India chased Afghanistan’s 159 for eight with ease.
Abhishek Sharma also made an explosive contribution, scoring 39 from 19 deliveries as India raced to 100 inside eight overs. The hosts reached the target in 14.5 overs, with Ishan Kishan unbeaten on 38 from 23 balls and Tilak Varma finishing on 15 not out.
Afghanistan struggled to contain India’s aggressive start despite Rashid Khan taking three wickets. The Afghanistan captain conceded 36 runs from his 3.5 overs as India maintained control throughout the chase.
Earlier, Nitish Kumar Reddy led India’s bowling attack with three wickets for 24 runs, helping restrict Afghanistan after they were asked to bat first.
Captain Ibrahim Zadran top-scored for Afghanistan with 37 from 33 balls, while Darwish Rasooli added a quick 26 off 15 deliveries. Rashid provided late momentum with 28 from 16 balls, but Afghanistan finished on 159 for eight.
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Jasprit Bumrah took one wicket for 25 runs from his four overs, while Arshdeep Singh claimed two wickets for 35.
India made a flying start in the chase, reaching 82 without loss during the six-over powerplay. Samson completed his half-century from only 20 balls before Rashid dismissed both him and Abhishek within two overs.
Kishan and Varma then guided India comfortably across the finish line, completing the victory with 31 deliveries remaining.
The result gives India an unassailable lead in the series, while Afghanistan will look to finish the tour on a positive note in the final match.
The third and final T20I will be played in New Delhi on Thursday.
