The final result belonged entirely to India, but Shreyas Iyer made sure Afghanistan captain Ibrahim Zadran was not left out of the celebrations. The two captains then shared the trophy presentation before Zadran joined the Indian players for their champions photograph. Moments after India wrapped up the Afghanistan T20I series with a 127 run victory in the third match on September 17, Iyer called Zadran onto the podium.
The gesture came at the end of the Friendship Cup and offered a different image from the one seen during a contest that India had controlled comprehensively. India had completed a 3-0 sweep, yet the Indian captain chose to use the occasion to acknowledge the opposition skipper.
The foundation for India’s huge victory was laid by Abhishek Sharma, who produced one of the most remarkable T20I innings of the series. His assault came at the top of the order and completely changed the complexion of India’s innings. Abhishek’s effort was also the fastest T20I hundred recorded by a player from a Full Member nation. Afghanistan never managed to mount a serious response.
Abhishek smashed 108 from 34 balls and reached his hundred in only 30 deliveries. The 30 ball hundred also took him past Rohit Sharma’s previous Indian record of a 35 ball century against Sri Lanka in 2017. Their innings lasted only 14.1 overs before all 10 wickets fell, allowing India to finish the series without dropping a game.
What Iyer Said After The Win The captain also explained why he had expected India to bat in the deciding match, revealing that he had discussed the toss with Zadran.
Axar Patel was another player singled out by Iyer after India’s convincing performance. For Zadran and his team, the night ended with Afghanistan bowled out for 94 in 14.1 overs. India had earlier put 221/7 on the board, eventually winning by 127 runs.
