Zimbabwe defeats India by 13 runs in T20 opener.
Bishnoi takes four wickets; Zimbabwe scores 115-9.
India collapses; Sundar’s effort falls short at 102 all out.
Raza and Chatara’s bowling key to Zimbabwe’s victory.
In a thrilling opening match of the five-match Twenty20 international (T20I) series, Zimbabwe clinched a remarkable 13-run victory over India at Harare Sports Club.
Early Setbacks and Resilient Fightback
Zimbabwe’s innings began on a shaky note. Innocent Kaia fell to Mukesh Kumar’s sharp delivery, setting a tense tone for the match. However, Wessly Madhevere and Brian Bennett steadied the ship, scoring 34 runs in four overs. Bennett’s aggressive approach, scoring 22 off 15 balls, was abruptly halted by Ravi Bishnoi’s precise leg-spin.
Madhevere’s departure at 51, bowled by a Bishnoi googly, triggered a series of quick wickets. Raza and Dion Myers briefly revived hope with a 23-run partnership, but Raza’s dismissal for 17 and a string of middle-order collapses left Zimbabwe struggling at 89 for seven in the 15th over. Despite the chaos, Clive Madande remained composed, adding crucial runs and finishing unbeaten on 29.
Bishnoi’s Bowling Masterclass
Ravi Bishnoi’s four-wicket haul for 13 runs was the highlight of India’s bowling effort. His leg-spin dismantled Zimbabwe’s batting line-up, causing significant damage. Washington Sundar also contributed with two key wickets for 11 runs, tightening the noose around the hosts. Zimbabwe’s final score of 115 for nine seemed insufficient against India’s formidable batting line-up.
India’s Top Order Crumbles
Contrary to expectations, India’s chase began disastrously. Abhishek Sharma’s early dismissal by Bennett set the tone. Ruturaj Gaikwad and Riyan Parag fell cheaply, with Gaikwad caught at slip and Parag caught off Chatara’s delivery. Rinku Singh’s exit for a duck left India tottering at 22 for four within five overs.
Shubman Gill’s Lone Resistance
Shubman Gill, known for his consistent performances, tried to anchor the innings. Despite Dhruv Jurel’s struggle and subsequent dismissal for six, Gill fought valiantly, scoring 31 off 29 balls. However, his dismissal by a superb Raza delivery, which deflected off his pad onto the stumps, left India at 47 for six in the 11th over.
Lower Order’s Brief Resilience
With the top order decimated, Washington Sundar and Avesh Khan attempted to stabilize the innings. Sundar played a cautious yet crucial role, while Avesh Khan’s aggressive 16 provided a glimmer of hope. However, Raza’s consistent pressure led to Khan’s dismissal, leaving India at 84 for eight.
Mukesh Kumar’s exit, bowled by Raza, further dimmed India’s chances, requiring a near-miracle from Sundar. Despite hitting a six and a four off Jongwe, the required run rate kept escalating.
Zimbabwe’s Nail-Biting Finish
Needing 16 runs from the final over, India placed their hopes on Sundar. Chatara’s disciplined bowling, combined with Muzarabani’s fielding, sealed the deal. Sundar’s desperate attempt to clear the field resulted in a catch by Muzarabani, and India was all out for 102, falling 13 runs short.
Key Performers
Sikandar Raza’s all-round performance, with three wickets for 25 runs, was instrumental in Zimbabwe’s defense. Tendai Chatara’s three-wicket haul for 16 runs, including key breakthroughs, underscored his value. Clive Madande’s resilient batting provided the necessary support to reach a defendable total.
