India captain Shubman Gill addressed the unfortunate mix-up with Rohit Sharma that led to the veteran opener’s dismissal in the first ODI against Afghanistan. Speaking during the post-match presentation, where he also picked up the Player of the Match award, Gill referred to the incident in a light tone, though the moment itself had left Rohit visibly disappointed as he walked back after a promising start was cut short by the run-out.
On the field, the disappointment was clear as Rohit trudged off after the miscommunication ended his innings earlier than expected. Gill, meanwhile, managed to keep his focus intact and went on to play a match-winning knock. India eventually cruised to a seven-wicket victory, chasing down the 195-run target with 13 balls to spare. The skipper led from the front with an unbeaten 84, ensuring the early setback did not affect the team’s momentum as India stayed in control throughout the chase.
After the match, Gill was asked in the post-match presentation if he had spoken to Rohit about the bizarre run-out. Responding to the question, the India skipper said, “I know he saw the replay. He said, “No, it’s fine.” Even in the last match that we played against Afghanistan T20s, he got run out there as well.”
Gill looked in sublime touch, displaying excellent control and composure throughout his stay at the crease. He struck 11 fours and two sixes, keeping India firmly in control of the chase and ensuring there were no major hiccups as he anchored the innings from start to finish.
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He reflected on the fast-paced nature of the contest and admitted that Afghanistan, led by Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s explosive century, had briefly taken control before India fought back with the ball.
“It was kind of a T20 game. The way we started, they pulled the game away from us. Gurbaz was brilliant and took the game away from us, but we fought back well. It was a brilliant wicket for batting. When we were bowling, there was a bit of grip, but it came on nicely when we batted,” Gill said.
Gill praises debutants
The India skipper also praised the impact of the debutants as the duo picked three wickets each, highlighting Gurnoor Brar’s control with both the new ball and at the death, along with Harsh Dubey’s recovery after an expensive opening over.
“Gurnoor, the way he bowled with the new ball and then came back at the death. Harsh as well, the way he came back after conceding 16 runs in his 1st over,” he added.
Gill further explained India’s approach in ODIs, stressing the importance of controlling the middle overs and sticking to simple batting and bowling plans discussed within the team setup.
“In ODIs, middle overs are crucial, in bowling, you need to keep creating opportunities and maintain pressure. In batting, it’s about finding the gaps and rotating the strike.l That’s exactly what we discuss in the team meetings as well,” he concluded