India wrapped up its Zimbabwe tour on a high note, securing a comprehensive 42-run victory in the fifth and final T20I, thereby clinching the series 4-1. Sanju Samson’s well-crafted fifty (58 off 45 balls) and Mukesh Kumar’s disciplined spell (4/22) were the key contributors to India’s dominant performance.
Samson’s innings was crucial in propelling India to a respectable total of 167 for six, with Shivam Dube’s quickfire 26 (12 balls) adding further momentum. The Indian bowlers then took charge, led by Mukesh Kumar, who delivered a career-best T20 figures, along with Dube (2/25) and Washington Sundar (1/7), restricting Zimbabwe to 125 in 18.3 overs.
Zimbabwe’s chase got off to a shaky start with the early dismissal of Wesley Madhevere, who was bowled by Mukesh Kumar in the first over. However, Tadiwanashe Marumani (27) and Dion Myers (34) added 44 runs for the third wicket, keeping the hosts in the hunt. Marumani’s switch-hit four off Ravi Bishnoi was a highlight of the innings, showcasing his impressive skills.
However, the Zimbabwean batters struggled to sustain their momentum. Marumani was dismissed by Washington Sundar, followed by Dube’s quick delivery that trapped Myers lbw. The run out of skipper Sikandar Raza (8) proved to be a crucial blow for Zimbabwe, as India capitalized on a flurry of wickets to dismantle the hosts’ hopes. Mukesh Kumar ended the Zimbabwe innings with the wicket of Richard Ngarava, completing a memorable performance.
Earlier, India’s innings gained momentum after a relatively slow Power Play, thanks to a crucial partnership between Samson (58) and Riyan Parag (22). The pair added 65 runs for the fourth wicket, displaying a calculated approach on a pitch that offered some turn. Samson’s aggressive streak emerged when he smashed Brandon Mavuta for two consecutive sixes, including a powerful shot over extra cover, bringing up his second T20I fifty.
Despite Samson’s efforts, India lost Parag to Mavuta, who then dismissed Samson as well. However, Dube’s explosive cameo late in the innings helped India accumulate a challenging total. The Indian bowlers effectively restricted Zimbabwe’s scoring rate, ensuring a comfortable victory for the visitors.
