IND vs ZIM: India thrashes Zimbabwe in Harare, levels series with 100-run victory

IND vs ZIM: India responded emphatically after their series-opening loss by defeating Zimbabwe by a massive 100-run margin in Harare on Super Sunday. With this victory India leveled the series by 1-1. Abhishek Sharma notched his first T20I century in only his second international appearance. The teams will meet again for the third match at the same venue on Wednesday.

As it happened

Indian captain Shubman Gill won the toss and opted to bat. Although Gill was dismissed early for just 2 runs, it didn't deter the team. The spotlight quickly shifted to the young and explosive Abhishek Sharma, playing only his second international match.

Abhishek's explosive century

Abhishek Sharma laid a solid foundation with Ruturaj Gaikwad, despite early setbacks. Initially playing cautiously, Abhishek soon switched gears and began scoring rapidly. His century came off just 46 balls, including 7 fours and 8 sixes. This inning also set a new record for the highest second-wicket partnership on this ground, surpassing Australia's previous record. Abhishek was eventually dismissed by Wellington Masakadza while attempting another big shot.

Support from Ruturaj-Rinku

After Abhishek's departure, Ruturaj Gaikwad continued to anchor the innings. He scored 77 runs off 47 balls, including 11 fours and a six. Following Gaikwad, Rinku Singh contributed significantly, smashing 48 runs off 22 balls with 5 sixes and 2 fours. Their combined efforts led India to a formidable total of 234 for 2, setting a challenging target of 235 runs for Zimbabwe.

Zimbabwe's struggles early

Zimbabwe's chase began poorly with opener Innocent Kaia getting bowled by Mukesh Kumar in the first over. Although Wesley Madhevere and Brian Bennett attempted to stabilize the innings, Bennett was dismissed after scoring 26 runs. Madhevere, who scored 43 runs, found little support from his teammates, as wickets continued to fall regularly.

Dominant Indian bowling

India's bowlers were relentless. Mukesh Kumar and Avesh Khan each took 3 wickets, effectively dismantling Zimbabwe's batting lineup. Ravi Bishnoi added 2 wickets to his tally, while Washington Sundar took 1. Despite a brief resistance from Luke Jongwe, who scored 33 runs, Zimbabwe's innings collapsed at 134 runs in 18.4 overs.