‘Captain Fantastic!’ Shubman Gill Blasts Fastest ODI Century, Registers Maiden Ton as India Skipper Against Afghanistan

Lucknow: India’s batting sensation Shubman Gill continued his extraordinary form with a stunning century against Afghanistan in the second ODI at the Ekana Cricket Stadium, scripting multiple milestones in the process.

The young star brought up his first-ever ODI century as captain and also registered the fastest hundred of his ODI career, producing a masterclass in controlled aggression that left Afghanistan’s bowlers searching for answers.

Gill Steps Up After Early Setback

India’s innings suffered an early blow when Yashasvi Jaiswal, returning to the playing XI, was dismissed for just four runs after Afghanistan elected to bowl first.

With Jaiswal opening the innings, Gill moved down the order from his regular opening position. The change, however, did little to disrupt his rhythm.

Walking in during the third over, Gill immediately looked comfortable at the crease, displaying excellent timing and confidence from the outset.

Crucial Partnership with Rohit Sharma

Gill joined forces with captain Rohit Sharma, and together the pair steadied India’s innings with an important 87-run partnership for the second wicket.

While Rohit looked set for a significant score, he fell short of a half-century. However, Gill continued to dominate proceedings, ensuring India maintained complete control of the match.

The right-hander rotated strike intelligently before unleashing an array of attacking shots once he was well-set.

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Fastest ODI Century of His Career

After reaching his half-century, Gill shifted into top gear and took apart the Afghanistan bowling attack.

The stylish batter reached his century in just 77 deliveries, making it the fastest ODI hundred of his international career. His innings was packed with elegant strokeplay and fearless hitting, including 12 boundaries and two towering sixes.

The century once again highlighted why Gill is widely regarded as one of the finest young batters in world cricket.

A Golden Run Continues

Gill entered the match on the back of an unbeaten 84-run knock in the opening ODI, where he played a pivotal role in India’s successful chase.

His latest century further extends a remarkable run of consistency across formats and strengthens his position as one of the key pillars of India’s batting future.

The innings also demonstrated his growing maturity as a leader, with the youngster responding brilliantly to the added responsibility of captaining the side.

India Tightens Grip on Series

The hundred came at a crucial stage of the match as India looked to build on their victory in the first ODI and secure an unassailable lead in the series.

Gill’s commanding knock not only put India in a strong position but also gave fans another glimpse of a batter who appears destined to lead Indian cricket’s next generation.

With records continuing to tumble and confidence soaring, Shubman Gill’s rise as both a batter and captain is becoming one of the most exciting stories in Indian cricket.