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The riveting ODI World Cup clash between India and Afghanistan reminded everyone of Virat Kohli and Naveen-ul-Haq's IPL scuffle when the duo were yet against each other but this time in a different set up. Their on-field discord, which initially erupted during the IPL 2023, was thrust back into the limelight during Wednesday's World Cup face-off.
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As Naveen strutted out to bat, echoes of Kohli's name resonated through the Arun Jaitley stadium, with the crowd signaling their allegiance with jeers directed at the Afghan cricketer.
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Naveen directed the ball towards fine-leg, where Kohli was stationed. Kohli took no time to gather the bowl and throw it towards KL Rahul but a slight misjudgment by India's wicketkeeper in collecting the ball meant Naveen secured two runs and evaded a potential run out. The missed run-out opportunity visibly irked Kohli, and this moment, capturing the intensity of the game, became a trending topic on social media platforms.
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The backdrop of this duel was the larger contest unfolding at New Delhi's iconic Arun Jaitley Stadium. With memories of the record-breaking 754-run spectacle, where South Africa vanquished Sri Lanka, still fresh, there was heightened anticipation in the air. Afghanistan, after winning the toss, chose to bat first, setting the stage for what was to come.
With the stadium awash in hues of blue, reflecting the enthusiasm of the near-capacity 40,000-strong audience, expectations were sky-high for Delhi's very own cricket sensation, Virat Kohli. They eagerly awaited a masterclass from the cricket maestro in his home city.
However, by the close of Afghanistan's innings, it was India's premier pace bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, who seized the limelight. Bumrah, renowned for his pinpoint accuracy and lethal deliveries, returned with his best World Cup figures, registering an impressive 4/39. This bowling prowess ensured Afghanistan faced a shaky start, wobbling at 63/3.
Yet, Afghanistan's batting resilience came to the fore, thanks to the composed partnership between Hashmatullah Shahidi and Azmatullah Omarzai. Together, they meticulously crafted a 121-run stand, injecting stability into Afghanistan's innings. Shahidi, showcasing his finesse and technique, scored a commendable 80, while Omarzai chipped in with a valuable 62. Their combined efforts steered Afghanistan to a competitive total of 272/8.
In reply India got off to a stormy start with Rohit Sharma cracking a blistering century to steer India to a commanding 164/1 as of 20 overs. Rohit partnered with Ishan Kishan and took Afghani bowlers to cleaners. While Rohit pummelled 108 off 70 riding on 13 fours and four sixes, Kishan is beautifully anchoring the innings with an unbeaten 47 off 47.
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