India Levels Series in Harare: Abhishek Sharma’s Maiden Century Crushes Zimbabwe
HARARE: Following a stunning upset in the series opener, Team India delivered a clinical performance in the second T20I against Zimbabwe at the Harare Sports Club. Led by a blistering maiden international century from opener Abhishek Sharma, India posted a massive total of 234 for 2 before bundling the hosts out for 134, securing a dominant 100-run victory to level the five-match series 1-1.
Match Summary: Aggression Pays Off
After a disappointing batting display in the first match, the Indian management, led by captain Shubman Gill and coach VVS Laxman, opted for a more aggressive tactical approach. The shift yielded immediate results as India registered their highest T20I total against Zimbabwe.
| Team | Score | Top Performers |
|---|---|---|
| India | 234/2 (20 overs) | Abhishek Sharma 100 (47), Ruturaj Gaikwad 77* (47), Rinku Singh 48* (22) |
| Zimbabwe | 134 (18.4 overs) | Wessly Madhevere 43 (39), Avesh Khan 3/15, Mukesh Kumar 3/37 |
Abhishek Sharma’s Historic Knock
Abhishek Sharma, playing only his second international match, rebounded from a duck in his debut to score a breathtaking 100 off just 47 balls. His innings included seven boundaries and eight sixes. Sharma reached his century with a hat-trick of sixes off Wellington Masakadza, demonstrating the fearless brand of cricket India aims to cultivate post-T20 World Cup.
“I think it was a pretty good performance after the loss in the first game. We realized we needed to assess conditions better and attack the loose balls early,” Sharma noted during the post-match presentation. His partnership of 137 runs with Ruturaj Gaikwad (77 not out) laid the foundation for the massive total.
Key Statistics from the Match
- 234/2: India’s highest team total against Zimbabwe in T20Is.
- 46 Balls: Balls taken by Abhishek Sharma to reach his century, the joint-third fastest by an Indian in T20Is.
- 100 Runs: The margin of victory, India’s biggest win (by runs) against Zimbabwe in this format.
Bowling Unit Wraps It Up
Defending the target, the Indian pacers were disciplined. Unlike the previous match where the batting faltered, the bowlers ensured Zimbabwe never gained momentum. Avesh Khan was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 3 for 15 in three overs, effectively dismantling the Zimbabwean middle order. Mukesh Kumar also chipped in with 3 wickets, while spinner Ravi Bishnoi remained economical, taking 2 for 11.
Zimbabwe’s chase struggled to launch, with only Wessly Madhevere (43) and Luke Jongwe (33) offering significant resistance. The hosts lost wickets at regular intervals, eventually folding for 134 in 18.4 overs.
Looking Ahead
With the series now tied at 1-1, the teams will remain in Harare for the third T20I. The convincing nature of this win provides India with significant momentum and a boost to their Net Run Rate.
For official scorecards and series schedules, visit the BCCI Official Website or the International Cricket Council (ICC).