Gill thus achieved his 21st international ton, comprising 11 in Test matches, nine in ODIs, and one in T20Is.
Gill and Kishan (125) unleashed a formidable assault on the Afghan bowlers, forming a blistering 224-run partnership for the third wicket off just 141 balls, creating a solid foundation for India’s impressive score after being invited to bat. Continuing their experiments ahead of next year’s World Cup, India included Yashasvi Jaiswal (4) to open with Rohit Sharma (48), while Gill shifted down to No. 3.
Unfortunately, the young left-hander couldn’t capitalize on the chance and was dismissed in the second over. Rohit, however, looked in superb form, showcasing glimpses of his vintage flair. The former captain timed the ball beautifully and seemed set for a significant score before being deceived by a Rashid Khan googly that caused an inside-edge to rattle into his stumps.
Gill then took control of the innings and seldom made mistakes. The stylish right-hander seamlessly blended precision with graceful stroke play, making batting look effortless amid the tough conditions. He navigated the innings wisely and was punishing whenever the Afghan bowlers attempted something different, cruising to his ninth ODI century. This milestone was particularly memorable as it marked his first century as ODI captain.
Kishan, meanwhile, played an ideal supporting role before dramatically accelerating after reaching his fifty. The wicketkeeper-batter, whose confidence has surged in recent months, recorded his second ODI century, his first since the remarkable double hundred against Bangladesh in December 2022.
The left-hander’s innings was filled with power and creativity. His pulls frequently sent the ball crashing into the advertising boards, while a couple of audacious one-handed sixes underscored his growing confidence.
Kishan reached his second fifty in just 19 balls and eventually fell after a dazzling 79-ball innings.
The oppressive heat, however, began to take a toll on Gill as he neared his hundred. The Indian captain required treatment for his back after the 34th over and appeared visibly fatigued.
Even after reaching his century, Gill contended with cramps and exhaustion but continued to anchor the innings with extraordinary determination.
Having propelled India deep into the final overs, his remarkable knock concluded in a rather disappointing manner when an attempted reverse sweep resulted in a catch to deep cover.
Gill’s dismissal triggered a batting collapse.
Left-arm spinner Nangeyalia Kharote (4/76) was the chief architect of India’s downfall, dismantling the middle order, while Rashid Khan took three wickets.
KL Rahul fell for a first-ball duck, and Shreyas Iyer (26), who started positively, could not convert his cameo, being dismissed just 11 deliveries later as Afghanistan regained control in the closing stages.
First Published: Jun 17, 2026 7:40 PM IST
