The Zimbabwean team celebrated with happiness after beating Team India in the initial T20I on Saturday, July 6 at Harare Sports Club. With this noteworthy win, the organisers grabbed an early 1-0 lead in the 5-match series. India have chosen a less experienced squad for this series, giving most of the players rest who achieved the World Cup trophy the previous month.
Acting captain Shubman Gill won the toss and chose to field first in the opening T20I. Zimbabwe’s batsmen showed resilience on a sluggish pitch, posting a total of 115/9 in their allotted 20 overs. The spin duo of Ravi Bishnoi (4/13) and Washington Sundar (2/11) made significant contributions with the ball for the Men in Blue.
The home group bowlers inspired in the 2nd innings, disregarding India for 102 runs in 19.5 overs. Tendai Chatara (3/16) and Sikandar Raza (3/25) had been star performers for Zimbabwe with the ball.
The Zimbabwean team and enthusiasts at the location were full of delight following Washington Sundar’s wicket, rejoicing in their winning moment with top-notch enthusiasm.
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“We’re thrilled with this win, but we won’t go overboard with the celebrations” – Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza
Throughout the post-match presentation, Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza conveyed joy at conquering a top team like India. However, he highlighted the importance of his team remaining humble, expecting a strong return from the World Champions after this setback
Reflecting on the victory, Sikandar stated: “Feeling really happy with this win but we’re not going to take the celebrations too far. The world champions are going to come back like world champions, so we have to take it one at a time.”
Raza stated: “As long as we go out there and give it a tough fight, give the crowd what they deserve, I’m happy. The fans were there to lift us up with their energy and we did not let them down today. Hope to keep this going!”
The two teams will meet again in the second T20I of the five-match series on Sunday (July 7) at the identical venue.
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