New Delhi, Sept 15:
India will look to seal the three-match T20I series against Afghanistan when the teams meet in the second match at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Tuesday, after a commanding seven-wicket victory in the series opener.
India produced an almost flawless performance in the first T20I. Abhishek Sharma’s explosive 82 off just 32 balls set up a comfortable chase, while Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh impressed with the ball. Afghanistan, who slipped to 41 for four early in their innings, were rescued to some extent by Azmatullah Omarzai’s fighting 64.
India have little reason to make wholesale changes after such a convincing opening performance. The biggest selection issue, however, has been created by Varun Chakaravarthy’s injury. The spinner has been ruled out of the remaining matches after scans revealed a side strain.
The batting combination will also remain under scrutiny. Sanju Samson’s early dismissal in the opening game has increased attention on the wicketkeeper-batter, while teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi remains an option if India decide to make a change at the top. India had named a squad containing both Samson and Sooryavanshi for the series.
Afghanistan, meanwhile, have little margin for error. Their top order will have to withstand India’s new-ball attack better, while their bowlers will need to find a way to contain India’s aggressive batting. A victory for India would give the hosts an unassailable 2-0 lead, while Afghanistan must win to keep the series alive.
The second T20I is the middle game of a series being played entirely in Delhi. The final match is scheduled for September 17.