Afghan Batting Collapse Leaves India 160 Runs to Win Second T20 Duel

New Delhi, September 15 – Afghanistan’s batting line‑up faltered early in the second Twenty20, posting 159 runs for eight wickets and leaving India a target of 160 runs. The match began with the Afghan openers losing the toss and opting to chase. Rahmanullah Gurbaz was dismissed on the first ball he faced, an immediate setback that put the scoreboard at 0–1.

The innings steadied when captain Ibrahim Zadran partnered with Sedikullah Atal, delivering a 51‑run stand off 40 deliveries. Zadran’s 37 runs came with six fours, while Atal added a quick 12 runs. Their partnership carried Afghanistan to 67 before the fourth wicket fell.

Ajmatullah Omarzai and Darvesh Rasooli then forged a 29‑run alliance, moving the total to 96. Rasooli’s 26 runs, featuring three boundaries, were cut short at the century mark.

The final push came from Mohammad Nabi and Rashid Khan, who combined for a vital 48‑run partnership in 28 balls. Nabi contributed 20 runs before his dismissal, and Rashid added 28 runs with four fours, taking Afghanistan’s score to 159.

India’s bowlers were disciplined. Nitish Reddy bowled three overs, conceding only 24 runs while taking three wickets. Arshdeep Singh grabbed two wickets, and Jasprit Bumrah, Akshar Patel and Ravi Bishnoi each claimed one wicket, ensuring a balanced attack.

The Indian XI, led by Sanju Samson behind the stumps, also fielded Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube and the trio of bowlers. Fresh off a seven‑wicket victory in the series opener, India will look to maintain its unbeaten streak as the series finale approaches on September 17 at the same venue.