Shubman Gill Opts to Bowl First in Rain-Delayed ODI Against Afghanistan

In a rain-shortened ODI match against Afghanistan, Indian captain Shubman Gill opted to bowl first after winning the toss. The match, reduced to 25 overs, faced delays due to persistent rain, but fans remained enthusiastic, dancing and enjoying the atmosphere. Newcomers Gurnoor Brar and Harsh Dubey made their debuts, while Gill emphasized the team's experimentation with combinations. The lively crowd and players engaged in fun activities kept spirits high until play could finally commence.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 13, 2026, 17:47 IST

Match Overview

In a rain-affected opening ODI against Afghanistan, Indian captain Shubman Gill won the toss and chose to bowl first. The match was shortened to 25 overs per side and was set to commence at 5:45 PM.

Debutants Shine

Gurnoor Brar and Harsh Dubey, both from Punjab, made their ODI debuts as Gill presented them with their caps. Notably, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Prince Yadav, and Kuldeep Yadav were absent from this match.

Captain's Insight

Gill commented on the weather conditions, stating, “It’s overcast, and we might face another interruption later. We are experimenting with different combinations to find what suits us best.”

Fans' Resilience

Fans exhibited remarkable patience, waiting nearly four hours for the match to start. The town experienced moderate rainfall throughout the morning, keeping the covers on until about 5 PM.

Entertainment Amidst Rain

Despite the gloomy weather, dedicated fans donned raincoats and filled the stands. The DJ became an unexpected highlight of the day, entertaining the crowd as they danced in the rain. Spectators waved jerseys and raincoats, while girls showcased their dance skills, creating a vibrant atmosphere. The DJ even played the popular rain song, “Tip Tip Barsa Paani.”

Players' Fun

While waiting for the game to start, players outside the Indian dressing room engaged in a ‘keepie-uppies’ challenge, reminiscent of the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States.