Hashmatullah Shahidi Achieves Maiden ODI Century Amidst Series Loss to India

Shahidi's Historic Century

Hashmatullah Shahidi, the captain of Afghanistan, finally celebrated his first ODI century after more than ten years of anticipation. He reached this milestone during the third and final ODI against India in Chennai on June 20, scoring 102 runs off 131 deliveries. His performance helped Afghanistan set a total of 218 runs. Despite the challenging heat in Chennai, Shahidi managed to endure and bat for an extended period. However, following the match, the ICC imposed a demerit point on him for breaching rules regarding the protected area of the pitch. He received two warnings for running into this area, and after a second infraction, five runs were added to India's score before they began their chase.

Afghanistan's Series Struggles

Afghanistan lose all matches in the series

Afghanistan's aspiration to secure a victory against India in international cricket remains elusive, as they concluded the series without a win. The series commenced with India achieving a staggering innings and 300-run victory in a one-off Test match. In the ODI series opener, India successfully chased down a target of 195 runs in just 22.5 overs, with the match being reduced to 25 overs per side due to heavy rainfall in Dharamsala. With centuries from Shubman Gill and Ishan Kishan, India amassed a formidable total of 402 runs. Afghanistan struggled to keep pace and was bowled out for 232, resulting in a loss by 170 runs. In the final ODI, India chased down the target of 219 runs with ease, losing only one wicket. Notably, Yashasvi Jaiswal, who had been dropped from the ODI squad, scored an unbeaten century in this match.