India Sweep Afghanistan In ODI Series As Yashasvi Jaiswal Smashes Century

Yashasvi Jaiswal hit a brilliant, unbeaten 110 to power India to a dominant nine-wicket victory over Afghanistan at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Saturday. The emphatic win enabled the hosts to complete a 3-0 clean sweep in the three-match One Day International series.

Skipper Shubman Gill expressed optimism that the young opener will sustain his exceptional form to secure a regular place in India’s highly competitive 50-over setup. Jaiswal anchored the successful chase of 219 with his second century in the format, finishing it in the 29th over.

Gill praised Jaiswal during the post-match press conference, noting that sitting out is challenging for any talented player. He emphasized that Jaiswal capitalised on his chances during this series and expressed hope that the left-hander would continue grabbing future opportunities.

The captain opted to bat at the No. 3 position during the final two encounters to permit Jaiswal to open alongside Rohit Sharma. The veteran skipper also contributed a valuable 79 runs, constructing a formidable 170-run partnership with his junior partner.

However, the team dynamics will shift when Virat Kohli returns to the national squad, which is expected for the upcoming series against England. This return will necessitate Gill moving back to his regular opening role, leaving the pivotal No. 3 spot for the veteran batsman.

Because Sharma also found his rhythm and scored runs in Chepauk, Jaiswal might find himself back on the substitutes’ bench for the next assignment, even if he remains a part of the official squad.

Gill remained unconcerned about the upcoming selection dilemmas, stating that the team management would address the selection logjam when the situation presents itself over the coming days.

The captain noted that having multiple players performing well is a positive sign for Indian cricket. He mentioned that the national selectors would likely announce the squad for the upcoming England tour within the next couple of days.

The team management intends to assess the overall fitness of the group before finalizing the playing eleven in England. Gill stated they will evaluate everyone’s physical condition and field the strongest possible lineup based on the final squad.

Young fast bowler Gurnoor Brar also put forward a compelling argument for his selection to the England tour after picking up 7 wickets across the 3 matches of this series.

Gill remarked that the tall bowler met most performance metrics but still needs to refine certain aspects through international experience. The skipper noted critically that the young pacer conceded some extra runs and showed occasional inconsistency on the field.

Nevertheless, the captain defended the rookie, highlighting that Brar is experiencing his maiden series at the highest level of international cricket while maintaining excellent bowling speeds.

Gill additionally highlighted the long-term potential of young left-arm spinner Harsh Dubey, expanding India’s options for the spin-bowling all-rounder role.

The captain expressed confidence in the available pool of left-arm all-rounders, noting that the squad possesses quality options like Axar Patel and Dubey. He emphasized the necessity of backing young talents to deliver 10 overs when demanded.

Afghanistan head coach Richard Pybus expressed deep dissatisfaction with his team’s batting unit. The visitors were bowled out for a meager 218 despite a maiden century from their captain.

Pybus labeled the batting display a below-par performance, stating that the pitch required a minimum score of 300. He hoped the squad would rectify these execution errors when they return to India for a T20I series later this year.

Future Outlook

The Indian team turns its attention to a 3-match ODI series in England scheduled from July 14-19, 2026. Skipper Shubman Gill, who also collected the Player of the Series award, highlighted that competing in English conditions will offer a vital preparation benchmark ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup, which will be co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.

Meanwhile, Afghanistan skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi view their upcoming fixtures against Ireland as a critical opportunity to rebuild. Having played their last ODI series 8 months ago against Bangladesh, the team plans to use the gap to integrate their new coaching staff and correct tactical flaws exposed by India.

FAQs

Who won the Player of the Match award in the 3rd ODI?

Prasidh Krishna won the Player of the Match award after registering his maiden five-wicket haul with exceptional bowling figures of 5-23 to restrict Afghanistan to 218.

What was the opening partnership score for India in the chase?

Indian openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rohit Sharma put together a dominant 170-run partnership for the first wicket, setting up a comfortable victory in the 29th over.

Where will India play their next ODI series?

India is scheduled to travel to England for a 3-match ODI series running from July 14 to July 19, 2026, which will serve as preparation for the 2027 World Cup.