Double super over India vs Afghanistan: 3rd T20I Rohit sharma’s century

The match india vs afghanistan held little significance, both in terms of its impact on the series outcome and the selection of the Indian squad for the T20 World Cup. As the final international game in the T20 format before the upcoming global tournament, the focus now shifts to the imminent IPL, where players will have another opportunity to showcase their form and fitness.

The game, despite its inconsequential nature in terms of series outcome and squad selection, unfolded with unexpected drama and remarkable length. Lasting almost four and a half hours and featuring two sets of Super Overs, the match showcased extraordinary events. From batsmen capitalizing on deflections to Rohit Sharma retiring himself out to accommodate a faster runner between wickets, and tempers flaring between India and Afghanistan—usually amicable teams—the game provided a wild spectacle of T20 cricket.

The official records, the match ended with both teams scoring 212 runs in their respective 20 overs and then tying again at 16 in the first set of Super Overs. Initially, Afghanistan appeared to have the advantage as they restricted India to 11 in the next Super Over. However, leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi turned the tide by taking two wickets in three balls, concluding a frenetic evening.

The initial Super Over left a lasting impression. Afghanistan managed to score 13 runs off the first five balls and ran a bye on the last one, with the throw deflecting off Nabi’s body. While some teams might not take the extra runs in such a situation, Afghanistan added two more to their score. This decision led to dissatisfaction among Rohit Sharma and the Indian team.

Subsequently, India pushed the boundaries of the transient ‘Spirit of Cricket’ by opting to retire their captain, not known for his speed between the wickets, in favor of the much quicker Rinku Singh during their Super Over innings. This tactical move proved successful, as Rinku swiftly reached the striker’s end after Yashasvi Jaiswal squeezed the ball to the wicketkeeper. This strategic run forced the game into another Super Over.

Despite a shaky start at 22/4 within the first four overs, reaching a total of 212 was a remarkable feat for the Indian team. Captain Rohit Sharma, whose place in the T20 World Cup was already secure, sought a boost in confidence after two consecutive ducks. He achieved this with a record-breaking fifth T20I century.

The comebacks of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have narrowed the opportunities for young batsmen competing for spots in the T20 World Cup squad. However, one player who seems assured of his place, although certainty is always subject to change, is Rinku Singh. Known as a finisher capable of scoring quick runs, Rinku displayed composure and match awareness on Wednesday, proving he can build an innings and orchestrate a substantial rescue effort.

Rohit Sharma and Rinku Singh initiated their innings cautiously, driven more by necessity than preference, before shifting their focus to exploit the vulnerabilities in the Afghan bowling attack. This demonstrated that, even in the shortest format of the game, success can be achieved by those who patiently wait for the right moment to launch their attack.

Rohit Sharma and Rinku Singh formed an unbeaten fifth-wicket partnership, amassing 190 runs off just 100 balls. The remarkable stand featured an explosive finish, with 103 runs scored in the last five overs, including 36 off the 20th over bowled by Karim Janat. Rohit Sharma commended his younger partner, acknowledging the valuable contributions he brings to the team.

Facing adversity at 30 for 4, the challenging situation provided an opportunity to showcase resilience and intent, according to Rohit Sharma. Acknowledging the significance of batting long while maintaining a fearless approach, Rohit praised Rinku Singh’s performance. Emphasizing Rinku’s clarity of game plan, calm demeanor, and consistent contributions, Rohit highlighted the need for a player who can confidently handle the pressure in the latter stages of an innings.