Gill and Kishan Hit Centuries as India Clinches Series Against Afghanistan

June 23, 2026 — Vikram Patel 4 min read

Shubman Gill and Ishan Kishan both scored centuries on Wednesday, propelling India to a commanding victory and securing the series against Afghanistan. The duo's explosive batting in the final T20I match left the Afghan bowlers searching for answers as India posted a formidable total at the crease. The result guarantees India the series with at least one match still to play.

Clinical Display from India's Top Order

The match unfolded at a rapid pace from the outset. Gill, known for his elegant stroke play, demonstrated why he has become a cornerstone of India's white-ball batting lineup. He reached his fifty off just 30 deliveries, then accelerated dramatically to bring up his century. His innings included 12 boundaries and 4 sixes, showcasing his ability to score across all parts of the ground. Kishan, the left-handed dynamo, matched his partner stroke for stroke. The wicketkeeper-batsman's 116-run knock came at a strike rate exceeding 180,underscoring his reputation as one of India's most destructive limited-overs players. Together, the pair added 172 runs for the opening wicket, effectively ending Afghanistan's hopes of competing in the remainder of the match.

Afghanistan's Bowlers Struggle to Contain the Onslaught

The Afghan bowling attack, which has shown promise in recent months, found the conditions particularly challenging. Their premier spinner, who had troubled Indian batsmen in earlier matches of the series, was taken apart by both Gill and Kishan. The Afghan captain's decision to insert India into the bat first appeared questionable as the pitch offered minimal assistance to the bowlers. By the time the powerplay concluded, India had already accumulated 78 runs without losing a wicket, setting the foundation for what would become a match-defifying partnership. Afghanistan's fielding also showed signs of fatigue, with a couple of half-chances being grassed in the outfield.

Afghanistan's Chase Falters Early

Chasing a target above 200, Afghanistan needed a strong start but never managed to gain momentum. Their top three batsmen fell to reckless shots, departing with a combined total of just 47 runs. The Indian bowlers, led by their experienced new-ball pair, exploited the movement on offer and kept the run rate under pressure. Afghanistan's middle order showed some resistance in a 45-run stand, but the required rate climbed beyond nine runs per over, rendering the outcome inevitable. The visitors were eventually bundled out for 159, handing India a victory margin of 68 runs and an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series.

What the Series Win Means for India

The result continues India's remarkable run in bilateral T20I series over the past eighteen months. Team management will be delighted with the returns from their young batting stars, particularly Gill, who has now scored three centuries in his last five T20I outings. Kishan's blistering form also strengthens the argument for his inclusion in India's World Cup planning. The Indian selectors have been clear about their desire to build a settled batting lineup ahead of the major tournament, and Wednesday's performance provided exactly the kind of confidence-building opportunity that these matches offer. Several players in the squad remain in contention for final spots, meaning the remaining two matches of the series will carry significant importance for those seeking to cement their positions.

Afghanistan Faces Questions Ahead of Major Tournaments

For Afghanistan, the series represents a missed opportunity to test themselves against a top-tier opponent in pressure situations. Their head coach acknowledged before the series began that playing India would expose areas requiring urgent attention before the Asia Cup and subsequent global events. Wednesday's performance suggested those concerns were well-founded. The Afghan batting unit has relied heavily on two or three experienced performers, and the lack of support from the lower order was evident throughout the series. However, Afghanistan's cricketing calendar includes several high-profile fixtures, and there remains sufficient time for the coaching staff to address the technical deficiencies witnessed against India's pace and spin attacks.

Looking Ahead to the Final Matches

Two matches remain in the series, and India will be eager to maintain their winning momentum rather than experiment unnecessarily. The venue for the next fixture is expected to be confirmed within the next 24 hours, with both teams flying out immediately after Wednesday's match concluded. India's next major assignment on the calendar is the Asia Cup, where they will face hosts Pakistan and Sri Lanka in what promises to be a fiercely contested tournament. Afghanistan, meanwhile, will use the remaining matches as final preparation for their own campaign in that competition. Fans attending the remaining games can expect to see both teams prioritising victory, despite the series outcome already being decided.