Sanju Samson was the star of the match as India beat Zimbabwe by 42 runs to win the series 4-1 on Sunday, July 14.

Samson led India to a 42 run victory over Zimbabwe in Harare, ending the series with a 4-1 score. His impressive 58 runs and Mukesh Kumar’s great bowling secured the win. Zimbabwe struggled with their middle order and couldn’t chase 168 runs, getting bowled out for 125.

Zimbabwe won the toss and chose to bowl first. Raza bowled the first over with a no ball that Yashasvi Jaiswal hit for six. After another six on the free hit, Raza bowled Jaiswal out.

Sanju Samson Leads India to Victory

Zimbabwe’s bowlers were disciplined and took the wickets of Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill, reducing India to 40 for 3 in 5 overs. Samson quickly found form, stabilizing the innings with Riyan Parag, adding 65 runs together.

After Parag’s dismissal, Samson accelerated with help from Shivam Dube, who scored 26 off 12 balls. Samson’s 58 off 45 balls was crucial before Zimbabwe fought back by taking his wicket. Rinku Singh’s final hits pushed India’s total to 167 in 20 overs, setting a challenging target.

Zimbabwe Struggles with the Chase

Zimbabwe’s chase started badly, with Mukesh Kumar dismissing Wessley Madhevere for a duck in the first over. He took Brian Bennett’s wicket in his second over and nearly got Tadiwanashe Marumani out, but a no ball saved Marumani, who then attacked Ravi Bishnoi.

Marumani and Dion Myers added 44 runs before Washington Sundar dismissed Marumani. Myers and Raza built another partnership, but things fell apart after Myers was dismissed by Dube. Zimbabwe collapsed from 85 for 3 to 90 for 6 in two overs, including a mix up leading to Raza’s run-out. Abhishek Sharma took another wicket, leaving Zimbabwe struggling at 94 for 7.

Faraz Akram’s late hitting provided some excitement, but Mukesh Kumar finished the job, ending with 4-22 as India won the series 4-1.

Indian youngsters shine despite criticism

After losing the first T20I, India’s young players faced criticism, labeled as IPL stars. However, Abhishek Sharma, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Ravi Bishnoi stepped up, ensuring an easy series win.

The inclusion of World Cup squad members like Sanju Samson, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Shivam Dube strengthened the team, proving too much for Zimbabwe. Shubman Gill’s effective captaincy also contributed to the success, leaving him pleased with his team’s performance.

With an upcoming tour in Sri Lanka, it’s uncertain who will join the T20I series as India begins a new chapter under Gautam Gambhir.

Gill though impressive as captain, faced mixed reviews for his batting. As the series top run scorer, his choice to open the innings over emerging players like Jaiswal and Abhishek Sharma sparked debate. Gill might consider batting at No. 3 to secure his place in the T20I team, taking inspiration from players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma on adapting and thriving in the format.