The cricket rivalry between India and Afghanistan, though newer compared to many historic cricketing rivalries, presents an intriguing narrative of the rapid rise of Afghanistan in international cricket.
Known for its spin-heavy bowling attack and spirited batting performances, Afghanistan has posed unique challenges and memorable encounters against a well-established cricket powerhouse like India.
Their matches, especially in recent ICC tournaments, have not only been competitive but have also highlighted Afghanistan’s growing prowess and India’s cricketing depth.
This blog delves into the timeline of matches between India and Afghanistan, spotlighting key encounters that have shaped this budding rivalry in the world of cricket.
A Brief History of India vs Afghanistan Rivalry
The India-Afghanistan cricket rivalry kicked off with their first encounter in an ICC World Twenty20 match in 2010. Despite the nascent stage of Afghanistan’s cricket journey, their bold performances and rapid growth have caught the eye of cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
Players like Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, and Mujeeb Ur Rahman from Afghanistan have become household names, showcasing their talents in major cricket leagues around the globe, including the Indian Premier League (IPL), where they play alongside and against several Indian stars.
India, with its seasoned players and tactical acumen, has always been a tough opponent, but the spirit and determination of the Afghan team in international tournaments have led to some close and thrilling contests.
India vs. Afghanistan Head-to-Head Statistics:
| Statistic | Test (2018) | ODI (2014–2023) | T20I (2010–2024) |
| Span | 2018 | 2014–2023 | 2010–2024 |
| Matches Played | 1 | 4 | 9 |
| Wins (India) | 1 | 3 | 8 |
| Wins (Afghanistan) | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Draws | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Ties | 0 | 1 | 1 |
| No Result | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| Win Percentage (India) | 100% | 75% | 88.89% |
| Win Percentage (Afghanistan) | 0% | 0% | 0% |
Despite the statistics heavily favoring India, several matches have been closely contested, reflecting Afghanistan’s growing cricketing skills and strategic gameplay.
Timeline of India vs Afghanistan Matches
India vs Afghanistan Test Matches Timeline
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| Series/Tournament + Season | Winner | Margin |
| Afghanistan in India Test Match 2018 | India | 1-0 (1) |
India vs Afghanistan ODI Matches Timeline
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ODIs between India and Afghanistan have been marked by significant and competitive matches, especially in the Asia Cup, where Afghanistan has showcased its ability to stand up against top cricketing nations.
| Series/Tournament + Season | Winner | Margin |
| India vs Afghanistan, Delhi, Oct 11, 2023 | India | 8 wickets |
| Afghanistan vs India, Southampton, Jun 22, 2019 | India | 11 runs |
| Afghanistan vs India, Dubai (DICS), Sep 25, 2018 | Tied | – |
| Afghanistan vs India, Mirpur, Mar 5, 2014 | India | 8 wickets |
Significant ODI Encounters:
- Asia Cup 2018, India vs. Afghanistan, Sept 25, 2018 – Match tied Afghanistan fought valiantly to tie the match, showcasing their improved batting and bowling capabilities against a strong Indian side. This match is often cited as a landmark moment in Afghan cricket history, proving their mettle on a big stage.
- World Cup 2019, India vs. Afghanistan, June 22, 2019 – India won by 11 runs A nail-biting encounter where India narrowly escaped an upset, thanks to a brilliant bowling performance by Mohammed Shami, including a hat-trick in the final over of the match.
India vs Afghanistan T20I Matches Timeline
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The T20 format, being more unpredictable and dynamic, has seen Afghanistan giving tough competition, with their spinners playing a crucial role.
| Series/Tournament + Season | Winner | Margin |
| Afghanistan vs India, Bridgetown, Jun 20, 2024 | India | 47 runs |
| India vs Afghanistan, Bengaluru, Jan 17, 2024 | Tied | – |
| India vs Afghanistan, Indore, Jan 14, 2024 | India | 6 wickets |
| India vs Afghanistan, Mohali, Jan 11, 2024 | India | 6 wickets |
| Afghanistan vs India, Hangzhou, Oct 7, 2023 | No result | – |
| Afghanistan vs India, Dubai (DICS), Sep 8, 2022 | India | 101 runs |
| Afghanistan vs India, Abu Dhabi, Nov 3, 2021 | India | 66 runs |
| Afghanistan vs India, Colombo (RPS), Sep 19, 2012 | India | 23 runs |
| Afghanistan vs India, Gros Islet, May 1, 2010 | India | 7 wickets |
Notable T20I Matches:
- ICC World T20 2010, India vs. Afghanistan, May 1, 2010 – India won by 7 wickets Afghanistan’s debut in ICC World T20 where they showcased promising talent despite the loss.
- Asia Cup 2016 (T20 Format), India vs. Afghanistan, March 3, 2016 – India won by 23 runs A competitive game where Afghanistan’s bowlers posed a serious challenge to India’s strong batting lineup.
Key Moments in the India vs Afghanistan Rivalry
Iconic Match Moments
- 2018 Asia Cup Tie: Both teams celebrated the spirit of cricket in a match that ended in a dramatic tie, with emotions running high and mutual respect at its peak.
- 2019 World Cup Nail-Biter: Afghanistan’s tight control of the game nearly led to a major upset in the 2019 World Cup, highlighting their potential to challenge any top team on their day.
Conclusion: The Future of the Rivalry
The India-Afghanistan cricket rivalry, while still in its early stages compared to other historic cricketing clashes, promises to grow into a more fiercely contested fixture as Afghanistan continues to develop its cricketing infrastructure and talent pool.
India, with its experience and depth, will look to maintain its dominance, but the spirited Afghan team is fast learning and adapting, making future encounters potentially more thrilling and unpredictable.
The mutual respect and competitive spirit that define this rivalry are what make it special, offering cricket fans around the world moments of sportsmanship and high-class cricket.
FAQ
When did India and Afghanistan first play against each other in cricket?
India and Afghanistan first played against each other in the ICC World Twenty20 in 2010.
What is the win percentage of India against Afghanistan in T20Is?
India has a win percentage of 88.89% against Afghanistan in T20Is.
Has Afghanistan ever won a match against India in any format?
As of the latest information, Afghanistan has not won any match against India in any format.
What was the result of the first Test match between India and Afghanistan?
India won the first Test match against Afghanistan, which was held in 2018, with a margin of 1-0.
Which match between India and Afghanistan ended in a tie?
The ODI match during the Asia Cup on September 25, 2018, between India and Afghanistan ended in a tie.
How many matches have India and Afghanistan played in ODIs?
India and Afghanistan have played a total of 4 ODI matches against each other.
What was the closest T20I contest between India and Afghanistan?
The closest T20I contest was on January 17, 2024, in Bengaluru, which ended in a tie.
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