Aakash Chopra has praised Shubman Gill for a composed unbeaten 84 that steered India to victory in the first ODI against Afghanistan, saying the captain makes batting look effortless.
The chase
India were set 195 in a 25-over game after Afghanistan opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz struck a fine century. Gill made 84 not out from 66 balls, with 11 fours and two sixes, to take control of the chase.
He arrived in the series in excellent form, having scored hundreds in IPL Qualifier 2 and in the recent one-off Test against Afghanistan.
Chopra’s assessment
On his YouTube channel, Chopra highlighted how easily Gill adapts between formats while staying in command of bowling attacks. He singled out the elegance of Gill’s strokeplay, especially a cover drive that set the tone for the innings, and said the youngster keeps consolidating his place among India’s premier batters.
Rahul’s finishing touch
Chopra also had warm words for KL Rahul, who remained unbeaten on 39 from only 19 balls. Rahul and Gill added an unbroken 53 for the fourth wicket to finish the chase comfortably.
The former opener noted Rahul’s versatility in recent weeks. After scoring heavily in the IPL and making a century in the one-off Test, he again showed his adaptability by closing out the game from the middle order.
Series position
The win gives India a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. The teams now move to Lucknow for the second ODI on June 17 at the BRSABV Ekana Stadium.
