India’s young team secured a dominant 10-wicket victory over Zimbabwe in the fourth T20 International, taking an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match series. The win marked the second time India has defeated Zimbabwe by this margin, echoing a similar victory at the same venue in 2016.
The victory was driven by the brilliance of openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill. Jaiswal, who missed the T20 World Cup, showcased his explosive batting style, smashing an unbeaten 93 runs. Gill, on the other hand, played the role of the anchor, finishing on 58* and guiding India to a comfortable chase of 153 runs in just 15.2 overs.
Jaiswal’s aggressive approach was evident from the start, as he effortlessly dispatched Zimbabwean bowlers to all parts of the ground. His powerful back-drive off Sikandar Raza and stylish pick-up pull off Richard Ngarava for a six highlighted his dominance. Gill, meanwhile, played with composure, ensuring a steady flow of runs and providing the perfect foil to Jaiswal’s aggression.
Earlier, India’s part-time bowlers Shivam Dube and Abhishek Sharma impressed in the middle overs, restricting Zimbabwe to 152/7. Sikandar Raza top-scored for Zimbabwe with a quickfire 46 off 28 balls, but India’s fifth bowler Abhishek (1/20 in 3 overs) and sixth option Dube (1/11 in 2 overs) kept the scoring rate under control. They dismissed the dangerous opening duo of Wesley Madhevere (25 off 24 balls) and Tadiwanashe Marumani (32 off 31 balls) to put the brakes on Zimbabwe’s momentum.
Tushar Deshpande, making his debut, was handed the new ball but initially struggled with his length, bowling too full or too short. However, he redeemed himself by dismissing Raza with a slower delivery in the slog overs, preventing Zimbabwe from reaching a more challenging target.
The series, now firmly in India’s grasp, has showcased the potential of the young Indian team, with Jaiswal and Gill emerging as stars of the future. With the series heading towards its conclusion, India will be looking to complete a clean sweep in the final T20I.
