Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar hailed the team’s selfless approach after a dominant seven-wicket victory over Afghanistan in the rain-affected opening ODI in Dharamshala, saying the batters made a challenging chase appear “ridiculously simple.”
India took a 1-0 lead in the three-match series after comfortably overhauling a demanding target in the shortened 25-overs-per-side contest. Gavaskar highlighted KL Rahul’s aggressive intent during the chase as a perfect example of the team’s commitment to collective success over individual milestones.
Speaking on JioStar’s ‘Cricket Live’, Gavaskar pointed to a crucial over from Zia Ur Rahman as the turning point. “Before that over, Zia had bowled three overs and conceded only 19 runs. Then KL Rahul attacked and took 20 runs off a single over. At that stage, Shubman Gill was just 21 runs away from a century, while India still needed around 30 runs to win. Rahul’s decision to take charge told you everything about the mindset of this team,” Gavaskar said.
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“It’s not about personal achievements or milestones. It’s about doing whatever is required for the team. To finish the game in the 23rd over shows just how clinical the chase was. The target was certainly not an easy one, but India made it look effortless because the players put the team’s interests first.”
Gavaskar also praised all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy for his valuable contribution with the ball, noting that his versatility provides India with important balance and flexibility.
“Depending on the conditions and match situation, he offers multiple options to the captain and selectors. He can be picked primarily as a batter and still provide useful overs, or selected as a bowling option who can contribute with the bat. That kind of versatility is a huge asset for any side,” Gavaskar explained.
The former skipper was equally impressed by debutant pacer Gurnoor Brar, who caught the eye with his pace, control and ability to generate movement.
“For someone playing his first international match, his control was outstanding. His opening delivery was clocked in the mid-140 kmph range and moved away from the right-hander. When a fast bowler can consistently operate at that pace while also moving the ball, it becomes a major weapon. He showed plenty of promise,” Gavaskar added.
Meanwhile, former England spinner Graeme Swann cautioned against writing off Afghanistan despite India’s convincing start, suggesting that conditions in Lucknow could help the visitors mount a strong comeback in the second ODI.
“Lucknow is a venue where spin bowling can have a major impact. The surface often grips, turns and makes stroke-making difficult because the ball doesn’t come onto the bat as nicely. Those are conditions that could suit Afghanistan perfectly because spin is their biggest strength,” Swann said.
“I certainly don’t believe the series is over. Afghanistan possess a quality spin attack capable of putting India under pressure, particularly in helpful conditions. Having said that, India have made a very professional and impressive start to the series,” he added.
