[Watch] IND vs AFG 2026: Gautam Gambhir wins hearts by distributing juice to fans amid scorching heat in Mullanpur

India head coach Gautam Gambhir found himself trending on social media for a heartwarming gesture during the ongoing one-off Test against Afghanistan in Mullanpur. While Gambhir is often in the spotlight for his views and on-field intensity, this time he earned praise from fans for a thoughtful act off the field.

The weather in New Chandigarh has been extremely hot and humid throughout the match, making conditions challenging for both players and spectators. Noticing the discomfort among fans, Gambhir personally walked over and distributed juice bottles to spectators who had gathered to watch the game. The gesture quickly went viral on social media, with many fans applauding the India coach for his kindness and concern for those attending the match.

Why did IND vs AFG Test end after only nine wickets fell?

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Why did IND vs AFG Test end after only nine wickets fell?

On the field, India have been in complete control of the contest. Captain Shubman Gill won the toss and elected to bat first, and the hosts made the most of favourable batting conditions by posting a massive first-innings total of 564/8 declared after batting for nearly two days.

Several Indian batters made significant contributions. KL Rahul scored a composed century, while Sai Sudharsan showed his brilliant form with 81 runs. Gill led from the front with a brilliant 126, and Rishabh Pant added an entertaining 81. Washington Sundar remained unbeaten on 52, helping India build a commanding total.

For Afghanistan, Mohammad Saleem Safi was the standout performer with the ball, claiming six wickets for 140 runs despite limited support from the other bowlers.

In reply, Afghanistan struggled against India’s disciplined bowling attack and were bowled out for 152 in 58.4 overs. Rahmat Shah offered some resistance with a fighting 60, but the visitors failed to build substantial partnerships.

Left-arm spinner Manav Suthar starred for India with outstanding figures of 6/33, while fast bowler Prasidh Krishna provided excellent support by taking 3/27. Holding a huge first-innings lead, India enforced the follow-on and moved closer to sealing victory on Day 3.

Following the conclusion of the Test match, India and Afghanistan will meet in a three-match ODI series. The first ODI will be played in Dharamsala on June 13, followed by the second in Lucknow on June 17 and the final match in Chennai on June 20.