Sportsmanship took center stage in Delhi after India completed a 3-0 T20I series sweep over Afghanistan with a dominant 127-run win in the third and final match on September 17. Following the post-match presentation, Indian skipper Shreyas Iyer delivered a touch of class by inviting Afghanistan captain Ibrahim Zadran to join him on the winner’s podium.
Shreyas Iyer shares Trophy & photo frame with Afghan skipper Zadran
Instead of celebrating solely with his squad, Iyer called Zadran up to share the trophy hoisting moment before asking him to pose alongside the Indian team for their official champions photo. The heartwarming gesture highlighted the mutual respect between the two sides despite the heavy scoreline, epitomising the name of the series 'Friendship Cup'. Zadran’s Afghanistan fought hard throughout the series, and Iyer’s selfless sign of camaraderie earned widespread praise from fans and commentators alike, serving as a classic example of the spirit of cricket overriding raw competition.
ALSO READ: Indian domestic umpires and referees set for big pay hike in BCCI’s new season plans
Abhishek Sharma's ton wreaks havoc on Afghanistan as India sweep series
Talking about the match, Abhishek Sharma dominated the contest with a historic exhibition of power-hitting, blasting a 34-ball 108 that reframed the record books. Reaching three figures in a mere 30 deliveries, the dynamic left-hander eclipsed Rohit Sharma’s previous 35-ball national record set against Sri Lanka in 2017. Beyond setting a new benchmark for Indian cricket, Abhishek's whirlwind effort stood as the fastest T20I century ever scored by a player from a Full Member nation.
That breathtaking opening salvo laid the groundwork for India's total of 221/7 after being sent in to bat first. Sanju Samson played a crucial supporting role at the other end, anchoring the innings with a fluent 50 to ensure the hosts set an intimidating target.
ALSO READ: BCCI announces WPL 2027's start and final dates, auction schedule out too
Faced with a massive scoreboard pressure, Afghanistan’s chase folded quickly under relentless pressure. The visitors were bundled out for just 94 in 14.1 overs, handing India a decisive 127-run victory and completing a dominant 3-0 series sweep to close out the tour.