HARARE: Zimbabwe secured a notable 13-run victory over the Indian team in the first T20 International at Harare Sports Club on Saturday, dealing an early setback to the reigning world champions in the ongoing five-match series.
Opting to bowl first after winning the toss, India’s decision seemed vindicated as they restricted Zimbabwe to a modest total of 115 for nine in their allotted 20 overs. However, the Indian batting lineup faltered under pressure during the chase, ultimately being bowled out for 102 runs.
Zimbabwean off-spinner Sikandar Raza emerged as the hero of the match, claiming three crucial wickets for just 25 runs. His dismissal of Indian captain Shubman Gill, who contributed 31 runs, proved pivotal in disrupting India’s chase.
India’s leg-break bowler Ravi Bishnoi also delivered a standout performance, taking four wickets for just 13 runs in his four overs. Washington Sundar supported with figures of 2-11, as India sought to contain the Zimbabwean batsmen.
Despite a shaky start, Zimbabwe managed to put up a competitive score, with Clive Madande top-scoring with an unbeaten 29 runs off 25 balls. However, Zimbabwe suffered a collapse from 73-3 to 90-9 before a late surge helped them reach their final total.
India, missing several key players who were rested for the tour, struggled early in their innings and never quite recovered from a dismal start of 22-4. Apart from Gill and Sundar, who scored 27 runs, no other batsman made a substantial contribution.
This victory marks Zimbabwe’s third win over India in their previous nine T20 encounters, all of which have been achieved at Harare Sports Club, with the last victory occurring in 2016.
