After being asked to bowl first, India restricted Afghanistan to a total of 159 for eight. Reddy was the architect of the bowling effort, finishing with figures of 3/24. His impact was immediate and consistent, as he claimed a wicket with the opening delivery of each of his three overs. He first accounted for Afghanistan captain Ibrahim Zadran, who contributed 37, before removing Gulbadin Naib and later Rashid Khan, who had added 28 to the visitors' tally.
Reddy eyes all-rounder evolution
Following his Player of the Match performance, Reddy reflected on his personal development and his ambition to become a premier all-rounder. He noted that his recent focus has been on increasing his bowling pace while maintaining physical fitness to avoid recurring injuries. The all-rounder credited the work done at the Centre of Excellence for his successful return to form, emphasizing the importance of trusting his abilities after a challenging first match in the series.
In response to the target of 160, India’s batting lineup displayed aggressive intent from the outset. Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma dominated the powerplay, putting together an 82-run partnership that put the hosts in a commanding position. Although Rashid Khan eventually dismissed Abhishek for 39 off 19 balls, Samson continued his assault on the bowling attack.
Samson reached his half-century in just 20 balls, an innings highlighted by seven boundaries and four sixes. By the time he was dismissed by Rashid for 57, the result was all but decided. Ishan Kishan remained unbeaten on 38 off 23 deliveries, while Shreyas Iyer chipped in with 11, guiding India to 163 for three in just 14.5 overs to seal the series victory.
