Zadran and Rasooli Lead Afg to 181 in 1st T20I Against West Indies

Afghanistan had a poor start to their innings despite winning the toss. Opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz was run out for a duck on the first ball. Sediqullah Atal was also dismissed just for 2 runs, caught by Jayden Seales, leaving Afghanistan at 19/2.

Though there was pressure at the beginning, 51 runs were made in the power play, which was a demonstration of an intention, but prevented further setbacks to Afghanistan.

Zadran and Rasooli Take Over

The turning point of the match was the partnership between Ibrahim Zadran and Darwish Rasooli. They steadily rebuild the innings and increase the scoring rate during the middle overs. By the midway mark, the score was Afghanistan 81 for 2, and they were in control.

Zadran scored his half-century in 37 balls and anchored the innings. Rasooli played a supporting role with fifty in 36 balls and timed boundaries. They both contributed 162 runs for the third wicket to counter the West Indies bowlers.

Late Surge Propels Afghanistan Beyond 180

Afghanistan gained momentum in the last overs, passing 150 by the 18th over. On the final ball, Rasooli was dismissed with a good 84, and caught by Shimron Hetmyer, but Zadran was still unbeaten.

Zadran finished unbeaten on 87 off 56 balls with eight fours and three sixes, and Afghanistan scored 181/3 in 20 overs at a rate of 9.05.

For the West Indies, Jayden Seales and Matthew Forde had one wicket each, with Gudakesh Motie impressing with an economical spell, giving only 18 runs in four overs.