The young Indian team faced a tough challenge in Harare as Zimbabwe beat them by 13 runs, giving the World Champions their first T20I defeat of the year.

Zimbabwe’s bowlers delivered an impressive performance, defending a modest total of 115 and bundling India out for just 102 in 19.5 overs. Sikandar Raza and Tendai Chatara took 3 wickets each, while Clive Madande’s late surge helped secure the victory. India’s poor death bowling and reckless batting cost them the game.

India won the toss and chose to field first. Mukesh Kumar struck early, dismissing Innocent Kaia for a duck. Wesley Madhevere and Brian Bennett then steadied Zimbabwe’s innings until Ravi Bishnoi turned the tide, taking two crucial wickets. Despite Avesh Khan removing Raza and causing a collapse, Madande’s 29 off 25 balls pushed Zimbabwe to 115. Bishnoi was the standout bowler for India, claiming 4 wickets for 13 runs.

Zimbabwe’s new era under Sikandar Raza

India’s chase started poorly, with Abhishek Sharma out for a duck. Ruturaj Gaikwad and Riyan Parag also failed to score significantly. Rinku Singh was out for a duck, and despite Shubman Gill’s efforts, the team struggled.

Gill was eventually dismissed by Raza, leaving India at 47 for 6. Avesh Khan and Washington Sundar provided some resistance, but Raza’s catch and Chatara’s wickets sealed Zimbabwe’s win.

Zimbabwe’s bowling brilliance and India’s batting collapse

Patience is needed with the young Indian players like Abhishek Sharma, Riyan Parag, and Dhruv Jurel, who are transitioning from IPL to international cricket. Their aggressive playstyle needs adjustment for the international stage.

Zimbabwe rebuilding under Sikandar Raza’s captaincy, showed belief and confidence. Despite missing key players like Sean Williams, Ryan Burl, and Craig Ervine, they capitalized on Madande’s late runs and Raza’s strategic bowling changes. Both teams will face off again on July 7.