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In the pulsating encounter between Afghanistan and India in the ongoing first T20I at Mohali, Afghanistan’s seasoned campaigner, Mohammad Nabi, emerged as the savior with a stellar innings. Entering the crease at a challenging juncture for Afghanistan, Nabi unleashed a breathtaking assault on the Indian bowlers, crafting a rapid 42 runs from a mere 27 deliveries. His exceptional performance played a pivotal role in steering Afghanistan to a competitive 158/5.
Early setbacks and Mohammad Nabi’s heroic entry
Despite a steady start from Ibrahim Zadran and Rahmanullah Gurbaz for Afghanistan, after being asked to bat first, faced setbacks with the rapid dismissals of both openers in quick succession. The third wicket fell in the following over, setting the stage for Nabi’s entrance. Unleashing an attacking display from the outset, Nabi exhibited his batting prowess, smashing two boundaries and three sixes.
Nabi’s crucial alliance with Azmatullah Omarzai
Nabi played a pivotal role in Afghanistan’s recovery, forming a crucial 68-run partnership with the young Azmatullah Omarzai. This partnership orchestrated off 43 balls, provided the much-needed impetus to Afghanistan’s innings. Particularly noteworthy was the resurgence after India initially restricted them to 57/3 within the first 10 overs, navigating the challenging conditions at the PCA Stadium.
Also READ: IND vs AFG: Here’s why Yashasvi Jaiswal not playing today’s game in Mohali against Afghanistan
Late flourish boosts Afghanistan’s total
In the latter stages of the innings, a late surge from Najibullah Zadran (19*) and Karim Janat (9*) propelled Afghanistan’s total beyond the 150 runs mark. Nabi’s aggressive innings and the late fireworks have set the stage for an intriguing contest, with Afghanistan presenting India a target of 159. As India gears up to chase, the series opener promises heightened excitement and competitiveness.
Here’s how Twitter reacted:
Mohammad Nabi 👀🫣
— Jaanvi🏏 (@that_shutterbug)
Can’t even remember an Afghanistan side without Mohammad Nabi, the guy is always present
— Gappistan Radio (@whyteknight07)
http://twitter.com/singh28915/status/1745459896395743278
Happy he got out but played a brilliant innings to put respect to Afghanistan batting. Deserved a 50 today Nabi. India tightening the game.
— Anurag Rekhi (@Dravidict)
Good bowling show. Not easy in such freezing cold. Really impressive from Axar Patel to finish with 2/23.
— Subhayan Chakraborty (@CricSubhayan)
A strong finish from Afghanistan with 28 off the final 2 as they end on 158-5
Mohammad Nabi top-scored with a 27-ball 42
— ThePoppingCrease (@PoppingCreaseSA)
Afghanistan finish the first innings at a total 158/5 which they can be fought…!!! 💪
Some excellent striking from Mohammad Nabi in middle help Afghanistan to reach 158/5 in 20 overs in the series opener. 😇
— Zohaib Hussain 🇵🇰 (@CricZobbiH)
Decent total from Afghanistan. Well fought in the last 10 overs.
— Areeba (@arieba_chaudryy)
http://twitter.com/san_x_m/status/1745462401099870209
Mohammad Nabi guides Afghanistan to a decent total. Can India chase this?
— betvisa68.com (@CricketTimesHQ)
Innings Break!
Afghanistan post 158/5 on the board.
2?wickets each for & Mukesh Kumar
1?wicket for Shivam DubeOver to our batters now 👍 👍
Scorecard ▶️ | |
— BCCI (@BCCI)
🎯 – 1️⃣5️⃣9️⃣
Mohammad Nabi (42), Azmatullah Omarzai (29), Ibrahim Zadran (25) and Rahmanullah Gurbaz (23) chip in with crucial runs as AfghanAtalan posted 158/5 on board in the first inning. 👏
Over to our bowlers now…! 👍 |
— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials)
