Gill, Kishan centuries power India to dominant series-clinching win over Afghanistan

India sealed the ODI series against Afghanistan with a dominant 170-run victory in the second match at Lucknow on Wednesday. Centuries from captain Shubman Gill and wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan powered the hosts to a massive total before the bowlers completed a comprehensive win.

Asked to bat first, India recovered from an early setback through a sensational partnership between Gill and Kishan. The duo added 224 runs for the second wicket, taking control of the innings and putting Afghanistan's bowlers under sustained pressure.

Gill led from the front with a superb 154, displaying a mix of aggression and composure despite the challenging heat and humidity. Kishan matched his captain's intent with an entertaining 125, scoring freely and keeping the scoreboard moving throughout his stay at the crease.

Their partnership laid the foundation for India to post an imposing 402, their highest ODI total against Afghanistan. Both batters dominated the attack with a steady flow of boundaries and smart strike rotation, ensuring the visitors never gained momentum.

Gill and Kishan take charge

After India's early wobble, Gill and Kishan steadied the innings before shifting gears. The pair punished loose deliveries and capitalised on the flat batting surface, turning the match firmly in India's favour.

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Gill's century further highlighted his remarkable consistency in ODI cricket, while Kishan made the most of his opportunity with a timely hundred. Their stand was one of India's fastest double-century partnerships in the format.

Bowlers complete one-sided victory

Chasing a daunting target, Afghanistan struggled from the outset. India's bowlers maintained tight lines and picked up wickets at regular intervals, preventing the visitors from building meaningful partnerships.

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The pressure of the steep chase eventually proved too much as Afghanistan were bowled out well short of the target, handing India a comfortable 170-run win and an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

The victory showcased India's strength in both batting and bowling, with Gill and Kishan starring in a performance that secured the series with a match to spare.