India came into their second Super 8 clash of the T20 World Cup 2026 under pressure after their massive 76-run defeat against South Africa at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. They were up against several equations before their eyes, but the only good thing for them was that the Proteas got the better of the West Indies in the afternoon clash at the same ground against the West Indies.

In a do-or-die clash, India batted first to post a massive score of 256 runs for the loss of four wickets in their 20 overs at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai against Zimbabwe. Their opening batter, Abhishek Sharma, celebrated a fine knock of 55 runs in 30 balls with the help of four boundaries and as many sixes, while the other batters contributed equally.

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Meanwhile, India’s all-rounder, Hardik Pandya, clubbed an unbeaten 50 runs in 23 balls at a strike rate of 217.39, hitting four sixes and two boundaries. Tilak Varma remained undefeated on 44 runs in 16 balls with the help of three boundaries and four sixes at a strike rate of 275.

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In reply, Zimbabwe were restricted to 184 runs for the loss of six wickets in their allotted 20 overs as their opener, Brian Bennett, remained unbeaten on 97 runs in 59 balls with the help of eight boundaries and six sixes at a strike rate of 164.41.

India’s next and final Super 8 clash is scheduled to happen against the West Indies at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata on March 01. That will be the quarter-final for both sides. The winner will take the glory, given that the net run rate won’t come into the equation for this contest.

West Indies can still qualify for the semifinal of the World Cup without beating India, if the game gets abandoned due to rain, as they have a better net run rate. But that scenario is next to impossible, given that it doesn’t rain much in March at this part of the world.

India’s cricketing prowess was on full display as they clinched the fourth T20I against Zimbabwe by 10 wickets. The match saw standout performances, particularly from young sensation Yashasvi Jaiswal and skipper Shubman Gill. This victory not only secured a series win for India but also highlighted the emerging talents in the team, setting the stage for exciting future prospects.

Match overview

In a commanding display, India chased down Zimbabwe’s target of 153 in just 15.2 overs without losing a wicket. Jaiswal’s explosive knock of 93 and Gill’s steady 58 ensured that India took an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match series. This victory marked the second time India defeated Zimbabwe by 10 wickets, replicating a similar triumph at the same venue in 2016.

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Yashasvi Jaiswal’s blistering knock

Yashasvi Jaiswal’s innings was nothing short of spectacular. Coming in with the pressure of maintaining India’s dominance, Jaiswal played with aggression and finesse, scoring 93 runs off just 49 balls. His innings included a mix of powerful boundaries and elegant strokes, demonstrating his wide range of skills.

Shubman Gill’s role

Shubman Gill, captaining the side, played a crucial supporting role with an unbeaten 58. His calm and composed approach provided the perfect foil to Jaiswal’s aggressive style.

However, Gill’s decision to accelerate towards the end of the chase, which prevented Jaiswal from reaching his century, sparked controversy among fans. While Gill’s actions ensured a quick finish, it left many fans feeling that Jaiswal was denied a well-deserved milestone.

Fan reactions

Social media was abuzz with reactions following the match. Fans expressed their disappointment at Gill’s decision to finish the game quickly, depriving Jaiswal of a potential century.