On this date in 2024, an exhilarating T20 International (T20I) match unfolded between India and Afghanistan at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The contest, characterized by intense fluctuations, culminated in two Super Overs before India clinched a remarkable victory, achieving a 3-0 series sweep.

Choosing to bat first, India encountered significant challenges, finding themselves in a dire position at 22 for 4. Nevertheless, captain Rohit Sharma led a stunning revival, amassing an impressive 121 runs not out from 69 deliveries, marking his fifth T20I century. He received valuable support from Rinku Singh, who added a vital 69 runs not out off 39 balls. Their partnership propelled India to a commanding total of 212 for 4 in the allotted 20 overs.

Afghanistan's gritty response

In the quest for 213 runs, Afghanistan's top-order batsmen delivered commendably, each contributing with half-centuries. Rahmanullah Gurbaz initiated the effort with a swift 50 runs from 32 balls, establishing a strong base for the innings. The momentum continued with Ibrahim Zadran, who also scored 50 runs, and Gulbadin Naib, whose remarkable unbeaten 55 off merely 23 balls brought Afghanistan to parity with India's score, concluding their innings at 212 for 6. This dynamic pursuit of runs paved the way for a Super Over.

The first Super Over: Neck-and-neck battle

In the initial Super Over, Afghanistan took to the crease first, accumulating a total of 16 runs. This total was bolstered by a controversial moment when a throw ricocheted off Mohammad Nabi's legs, enabling the team to secure two extra runs. In reply, Rohit Sharma mirrored this aggressive approach, striking two sixes on the third and fourth deliveries. In a calculated decision, he opted to retire himself, allowing Rinku Singh to face the final ball in pursuit of a faster run. Nevertheless, this strategy proved ineffective, as India also concluded the Super Over with 16 runs, resulting in a tie and necessitating a second Super Over.

The second Super Over: Bishnoi's brilliance

In the second Super Over, India took to the crease first, with Rohit Sharma controversially returning to bat despite having been dismissed in the initial Super Over, which typically prohibits such an occurrence. He contributed 11 runs while losing two wickets over the course of five balls. Afghanistan, requiring 12 runs to secure victory, encountered Ravi Bishnoi. The leg-spinner maintained his composure under pressure, achieving remarkable success by claiming two wickets with his first two deliveries, ultimately leading India to a dramatic 10-run triumph in the second Super Over.

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