Rohit Sharma's fifth T20I century wasn't enough to steer India past victory line initially in the third T20I against Afghanistan as Men in Blue needed two Super Overs to get the better of hosts by 10 runs in order to sweep three-match series 3-0.
However, the Indian skipper found himself batting not just once, but twice more, as the thrilling third T20I extended into double Super Overs following a tie at 212 runs each at the conclusion of 40 intense overs. Ultimately, India managed to hold their nerves and clinched victory in the second Super Over, wrapping up the series amidst a backdrop of high drama.
Gulbadin Naib played a key role in Afghanistan's challenging effort, hitting a remarkable fifty that brought the score level to 212, nearly securing their first-ever T20I win against India. Naib's valiant performance brought Afghanistan tantalizingly close to victory, scoring 18 runs when 19 were required in the nail-biting final over of the game.
During the Super Over, Afghanistan batted first and the tension escalated in the final delivery bowled by Mukesh Kumar. Sanju Samson's throw from behind the wickets inadvertently struck Mohammad Nabi, and the ball deflected towards Virat Kohli at long-on. Seizing the moment, the Afghan veteran scrambled for two overthrows, bringing their Super Over score to 16 runs. Rohit expressed clear displeasure at Afghanistan's decision to run the extra two, pointing out that the ball had ricocheted off Mohammad Nabi. The Indian captain engaged in a heated discussion with the umpire and then with Mohammad Nabi.
The umpires found themselves unable to placate Rohit Sharma, as Afghanistan's action of taking the two additional runs was entirely within the rules of the game. Virat Kohli, positioned at long-on, also appeared displeased as Rohit Sharma continued his argument with Mohammad Nabi.
The umpires found themselves unable to soothe Rohit Sharma's frustrations as Afghanistan's decision to take two additional runs, resulting from a deflection, adhered to the rules of the game. Virat Kohli, stationed at long-on, also seemed discontent as the debate between Rohit Sharma and Mohammad Nabi continued.
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ROHIT TAKES CHARGE IN SUPER OVER EXCITEMENT
Rohit Sharma assumed control in a critical moment, stepping up to bat with Yashasvi Jaiswal in pursuit of 17 runs in the Super Over.
In the Super Over bowled by Azmatullah Omarzai, India managed only 2 runs from the initial two deliveries, with both Rohit and Jaiswal struggling to make solid contact. Nonetheless, Rohit swiftly changed the game's momentum, striking a six and a four in the subsequent deliveries.
Adding to the tension, Rohit Sharma chose to retire himself out when India needed 2 runs from the last ball, bringing in Rinku Singh as his replacement.
Despite these efforts, India couldn't secure victory in the first Super Over, ending in a tie at 16 runs with Afghanistan.
The match, already among the most thrilling T20I games, escalated further as it proceeded to a second Super Over to determine the winner.
In the second Super Over, India batted first, with Rohit Sharma striking a six and a four against Fareed Khan, who bowled for India. After hitting these shots, Rohit took a single, passing the baton to Rinku Singh.
There was some uncertainty about whether Rohit would be eligible to bat in the second Super Over, having retired in the first. However, officials confirmed he could participate as he hadn't been dismissed in the initial Super Over.
India quickly scored 11 runs in the first three balls of the second Super Over. Unfortunately, Rinku Singh was caught behind for a duck, and Sanju Samson stepped in at No. 3. The situation didn't improve as Rohit Sharma was run out, leaving India all out for 11 runs in the Super Over.
The tension finally broke in India's favor as Ravi Bishnoi impressively took 2 wickets while conceding just 1 run, tasked with bowling the second Super Over for India.
RECORD ACHIEVEMENT FOR CAPTAIN ROHIT
Rohit Sharma emerged as the hero of the eventful evening in Bengaluru. He scored a magnificent 121 and formed a historic 190-run partnership with Rinku Singh after India's initial slump to 22 for 4. Rohit led his team adeptly, maintaining focus despite the unpredictable nature of the game.
India completed a 3-0 series sweep in their last T20I series before the World Cup, with Rohit Sharma at the helm.
Rohit's outstanding leadership and performance saw him ascend to the pinnacle of success, tying with MS Dhoni as India's most successful T20I captain.
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