Shubman Gill lit up the first ODI between India and Afghanistan in Dharamsala on June 13. The India skipper grabbed a superb one-handed slip catch to remove Allah Ghazanfar. The effort came during a rain-shortened match and quickly became a major talking point among fans.
The dismissal stood out because of its speed, timing and difficulty. Ghazanfar tried to attack Harsh Dubey after moving away from the stumps. The slower ball was floated outside off, and the shot took a thick top edge. The ball flew sharply towards Gill at first slip.
Shubman Gill Takes A Blinder At Slip
Gill reacted instantly as the ball raced to the left of first slip. He threw himself across, stretched his left hand, and completed the catch while airborne. Even after falling, Gill kept the ball firmly under control.
The Dharamsala crowd responded with disbelief after the stunning fielding effort.
The catch dismissed Afghanistan's Allah Ghazanfar and gave India another important wicket. It also showed Gill's sharp reflexes in the cordon. Many viewers began discussing whether the effort belonged among the finest slip catches seen in ODI cricket.
Harsh Dubey also gained from the moment on ODI debut for India. The wicket helped the hosts slow Afghanistan after a fierce opening phase. India's fielders backed the bowlers well, with Gill's catch becoming the standout moment from the innings.
Shubman Gill Becomes Second Fastest To Reach 3,000 Runs
Shubman Gill became the second-fastest batter to reach 3,000 ODI runs, achieving the milestone in just 62 innings during the first ODI against Afghanistan in Dharamshala. The India captain needed 47 runs and responded with a quickfire 57 off 40 balls, including a 37-ball half-century.
Gill now trails only Hashim Amla, who reached the mark in 57 innings. In the process, he surpassed players like Shai Hope, Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam. He also became the fastest Indian to 3,000 ODI runs, beating Shikhar Dhawan's record by 10 innings, while Virat Kohli took 75.
The 26-year-old already holds records for the fastest to 2,000 and 2,500 ODI runs, highlighting his consistency and aggressive approach. His rise continues to strengthen India's batting lineup, making him a key figure as the team builds towards the next ODI World Cup.
