In the fourth T20 International cricket match between Zimbabwe and India at Harare Sports Club in Harare, India’s Yashasvi Jaiswal was the star of the show. Jaiswal scored an impressive 93 not out off 53 balls, helping India secure a comfortable 10-wicket victory over Zimbabwe. His innings included 13 fours and two sixes, as he formed an unbeaten 156-run opening partnership with skipper Shubman Gill, who chipped in with 58 not out off 39 balls. This win gave India a 3-1 lead in the five-match series, with the final game set to take place the following day.
Zimbabwe, batting first, managed to put up a total of 152-7 in their 20 overs. Skipper Sikandar Raza top-scored for the hosts with 46 runs, while India’s left-arm pacer Khaleel Ahmed was the pick of the bowlers, finishing with figures of 2-32. Despite a steady start from the Zimbabwean openers Wessly Madhevere and Tadiwanashe Marumani, the Indian bowlers were able to pick up crucial wickets at regular intervals to restrict the hosts to a below-par score.
In response, India’s opening pair of Jaiswal and Gill made light work of the target, chasing down the total with ease. Jaiswal’s aggressive approach saw him reach his half-century off just 29 balls, before accelerating to score 43 more runs off 24 deliveries. Gill, on the other hand, played a more measured innings, reaching his second consecutive half-century off 35 balls. The duo’s partnership of 100 runs off only 58 balls helped India secure victory with 28 balls to spare, with Jaiswal falling just short of a century.
Jaiswal, who was named player of the match for his stellar performance, expressed his delight at his batting display, stating that he had executed his plans well against the Zimbabwean bowlers. He credited his attacking approach at the start of his innings, followed by a more cautious approach as he aimed to see his team through to victory. This win marked India’s second 10-wicket victory in T20 Internationals, with their first coming against Zimbabwe at the same venue back in 2016.
Overall, India’s dominant performance in the fourth T20 match against Zimbabwe highlighted their strong batting lineup and depth in bowling. With the series already secured, the Indian team will be looking to maintain their momentum and secure a comprehensive series win in the final match. Jaiswal’s impressive display with the bat will undoubtedly boost his confidence and solidify his position in the Indian team, showcasing his talent and potential for success on the international stage.
