On This Day in 2024: Rohit Sharma’s 121* and double super over drama vs Afghanistan

On January 17, 2024, cricket enthusiasts witnessed a thrilling T20 International match between India and Afghanistan at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The encounter was marked by a stellar performance from Indian captain Rohit Sharma, who scored an unbeaten 121 runs off 69 balls, including 11 fours and 8 sixes. His innings were instrumental in India’s recovery from a precarious 22 for four to a formidable total of 212 for four, thanks to a remarkable 190-run partnership with Rinku Singh, who contributed 69 not out off 39 balls.

Afghanistan’s chase was equally compelling. Openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran scored 50 runs, setting a solid foundation with a 93-run partnership in 11 overs. Despite the efforts of Indian spinners Washington Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav to stem the flow of runs, Gulbadin Naib’s explosive 55 not out off 23 balls brought Afghanistan tantalizingly close to victory. With 19 runs required in the final over, Naib scored 18, leading to a tie and the necessity of a Super Over to determine the winner.

In the first Super Over, Afghanistan set a target of 16 runs, which India matched, largely due to Rohit Sharma’s contribution of 13 runs. This unprecedented situation led to a second Super Over. India batted first, scoring 11 runs from Rohit’s bat before he was run out. In response, leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi bowled a remarkable over, dismissing both Mohammad Nabi and Rahmanullah Gurbaz without conceding a run, securing a dramatic victory for India.

This match was particularly significant as it marked the first instance of a double Super Over in T20 International cricket, adding a historic dimension to India’s 3-0 series win over Afghanistan. The venue, M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, has been the site of several memorable cricketing moments, including hosting Afghanistan’s inaugural Test match in 2018.

Rohit Sharma’s performance not only guided India to victory but also silenced critics questioning his place in the T20 format. His innings showcased a blend of restraint and aggression, adapting to the match situation and conditions effectively. The successful partnership with Rinku Singh highlighted India’s batting depth and resilience, setting a positive tone ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup.