Following India’s victory over Zimbabwe in the second T20I of the five-match series on Sunday, Zimbabwe skipper Sikandar Raza praised the World Champions, acknowledging their performance. Abhishek Sharma’s spectacular century and disciplined bowling by the Indian team led by Shubman Gill secured a comprehensive 100-run win at Harare Sports Club, leveling the series 1-1.
“The world champions played like world champions today. Dropping catches certainly hurt us. I had expected them to score around 200 on this wicket, but they managed to get 30 runs more. Going into the chase, I thought it would be a close game, but unfortunately, our top-order didn’t fire,” Raza commented after the match.
He also highlighted Blessing Muzarbani’s progress, noting his hunger for success and predicting a rising trajectory for him as long as he maintains fitness. Reflecting on Zimbabwe’s approach, Raza added, “It’s a challenge we’ve discussed for a long time. Today, we came out positively, played our shots, but we faced issues due to inexperience.”
Summarizing the game, Indian skipper Shubman Gill won the toss and opted to bat first. India posted a formidable total of 234/2 in their allotted 20 overs, fueled by Abhishek Sharma’s explosive century (100 runs off 47 balls) and Ruturaj Gaikwad’s composed 77 not out (47 balls). Rinku Singh’s brisk 48 off 22 balls also bolstered the innings, featuring five sixes and two fours at a striking rate of 218.18.
In response, Zimbabwe faltered in their chase, managing only 134 runs before being bowled out in 18.4 overs. Opener Wessly Madhevere top-scored with 43 runs, while Luke Jongwe contributed 33 runs. Avesh Khan and Mukesh Kumar starred with the ball for India, both claiming three wickets each, supported by Ravi Bishnoi and Washington Sundar who took two and one wicket respectively.
India’s dominant performance ensured a convincing victory, setting up an intriguing contest for the remaining matches of the series.