India's Dominant Victory: How Abhishek Sharma and Hardik Pandya Led the Charge Against Zimbabwe

In a must-win match at the T20 World Cup, India defeated Zimbabwe by 72 runs, thanks to remarkable performances from Abhishek Sharma and Hardik Pandya. Sharma's explosive 55 runs and Pandya's unbeaten 50 propelled India to a record total of 256. Despite Brian Bennett's impressive 97 for Zimbabwe, they fell short, managing only 184 runs. Arshdeep Singh's bowling was pivotal, securing three wickets and leading India to a crucial victory that keeps their semifinal hopes alive. Discover the highlights of this thrilling encounter.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 26, 2026, 22:50 IST

India Secures Crucial Win Over Zimbabwe in T20 World Cup

Chennai: In a thrilling Super 8 encounter, India triumphed over Zimbabwe by 72 runs, keeping their semifinal aspirations alive in the T20 World Cup on Thursday.

Abhishek Sharma set the tone with a rapid 55 runs off just 30 balls, forming a solid opening partnership of 48 runs with Sanju Samson, who contributed 24 runs after Zimbabwe chose to bowl first.

Ishan Kishan added 38 runs, while Suryakumar Yadav chipped in with 33 runs, but it was Hardik Pandya's explosive 50 runs off 23 balls that propelled India to a staggering total of 256 for 4, marking the highest score of this tournament.

Tilak Varma also played a crucial role, remaining unbeaten on 44 runs from just 14 balls, as he and Pandya combined for an impressive 84-run partnership off only 31 deliveries.

In response, Zimbabwe's Brian Bennett was the standout performer, scoring an unbeaten 97 runs, but the team could only manage 184 runs for 6 wickets in their allotted 20 overs.

Arshdeep Singh was the star bowler for India, claiming 3 wickets for 24 runs.

Zimbabwe's bowlers, including Richard Ngarava (1/62), Blessing Muzarabani (1/43), Tinotenda Maposa (1/40), and captain Sikandar Raza (1/29), struggled to contain India's aggressive batting.