On This Day: Historic T20 Between India and Afghanistan – 400+ Runs, Two Super Overs, and Rohit Sharma’s Heroics

Bengaluru: Two years ago today, on 17 January 2024, the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru witnessed one of the most extraordinary T20 matches in cricket history. The third T20 of the series between India and Afghanistan was not only a high-scoring thriller but also became one of the rare international matches decided by two super overs.

Rohit Sharma’s Century Rescue
After winning the toss, India batted first but got off to a shaky start, losing four wickets for just 22 runs. Captain Rohit Sharma (121) and Rinku Singh (69) steadied the innings, putting together a record fifth-wicket partnership and taking India to a formidable total of 212 runs.

Afghanistan’s Fierce Response
Afghanistan did not back down in their chase. Three top-order batsmen scored half-centuries, with Gulbadin Naib playing a fiery unbeaten 59 off 23 balls to keep Afghanistan in the hunt. On the final delivery of their innings, Naib’s heroics ensured the scores were level, triggering the first-ever super over of the match.

Drama in the First Super Over
Afghanistan batted first in the first super over, scoring 16 runs. The over saw controversy when extra runs were awarded after a deflection off Mohammad Nabi’s legs. India required 2 runs off the last ball to win, but Yashasvi Jaiswal managed just one, leaving the match tied again.

India Clinches Victory in the Second Super Over
The drama continued into a second super over. India batted first, scoring 11 runs, powered by a six and a four from Rohit Sharma. Controversy arose when Rohit returned to bat again, prompting debates over the rules. Chasing 12 runs, Afghanistan faced India spinner Ravi Bishnoi, who struck twice in the first three balls, dismissing Afghanistan for just 1 run. This secured India the thrilling match and completed a 3-0 series sweep.

This match remains a landmark in T20 cricket, remembered for its record-breaking scores, nail-biting super overs, and Rohit Sharma’s masterclass under pressure.