IND vs AFG 2026: Young fan touches Shubman Gill’s feet during tea break on Day 1

India captain Shubman Gill continued his impressive rise as a leader and batter on the opening day of the one-off Test against Afghanistan in Mullanpur on June 6. While India’s dominant batting display grabbed the headlines, a heartwarming moment involving Gill during the tea break quickly went viral across social media.

As Gill and KL Rahul walked back towards the pavilion after the second session, a young ball-duty volunteer standing near the boundary line touched Gill’s feet as the captain passed by. The gesture reflected the admiration that young cricket fans have for the Indian skipper, with many supporters praising Gill’s growing stature in Indian cricket. The clip soon became a talking point online, with fans highlighting how quickly Gill has become a role model for aspiring cricketers.

A young cricketer touched Shubman Gill's feet after the tea break. ♥️- RESPECT IS EARNED, NOT BEGGED!

IND vs AFG 2026: Graeme Swann salutes KL Rahul’s acting

Earlier in the day, India won the toss and elected to bat first. The decision proved to be the right one as the hosts dominated Afghanistan’s bowling attack from the outset. After six months away from Test cricket, India returned to the format in commanding fashion, ending Day 1 on a formidable 368/3 in 85 overs.

KL Rahul led the charge with a composed century, scoring 100 runs from 165 deliveries. His innings included 11 boundaries and provided India with a solid platform. Sai Sudharsan also made a significant contribution, compiling 81 runs from 104 balls and sharing an important 139-run partnership with Rahul for the second wicket.

Captain Gill once again demonstrated his class with an unbeaten 103 off 143 deliveries. His innings featured 11 fours and a six, keeping India firmly in control throughout the final session. Rishabh Pant provided excellent support, remaining not out on 50 from just 70 balls and maintaining a brisk scoring rate.

The partnerships proved crucial to India’s success. Rahul and Sudharsan added 139 runs for the second wicket, while Rahul and Gill stitched together a 67-run stand for the third wicket. Gill and Pant then took charge, producing an unbeaten partnership of 121 runs for the fourth wicket.