India Beats Zimbabwe by 100 Runs in Second T20I
Abhishek Sharma’s Century and Strong Bowling Lead to Victory
On July 7, in Harare, Zimbabwe, the Indian cricket team, led by Shubman Gill, defeated Zimbabwe by 100 runs in the second T20I match at the Harare Sports Club. This win helped India level the five-match series 1-1.
India’s Batting Performance
India chose to bat first but had a shaky start, losing captain Shubman Gill for just 2 runs. However, Abhishek Sharma and Ruturaj Gaikwad steadied the innings. Sharma was particularly aggressive, scoring his maiden T20I century in just 46 balls. He hit four boundaries and six sixes, reaching 100 runs before being dismissed. Gaikwad also contributed significantly, remaining unbeaten with 77 runs, while Rinku Singh added 48 runs. India finished their innings at 234/2 in 20 overs.
Zimbabwe’s Struggle
Chasing a target of 235 runs, Zimbabwe had a poor start, losing opener Innocent Kaia for 4 runs in the first over. Mukesh Kumar and Avesh Khan were the standout bowlers for India, taking three wickets each. Zimbabwe’s Wessly Madhevere tried to fight back with 43 runs, and Luke Jongwe added 33 runs, but it wasn’t enough. Zimbabwe was bowled out for 134 runs in 18.4 overs.
Key Performers
| India | Zimbabwe |
|---|---|
| Abhishek Sharma – 100 runs | Wessly Madhevere – 43 runs |
| Ruturaj Gaikwad – 77* runs | Luke Jongwe – 33 runs |
| Avesh Khan – 3/15 | Wellington Masakadza – 1/29 |
| Mukesh Kumar – 3/37 |
India’s disciplined bowling and Abhishek Sharma’s explosive batting were the highlights of the match, leading to a comprehensive victory.
