Ravi Bishnoi’s 4 wicket haul in vein; Indian team crumbled in front of Zimbabwe post T20 World Cup victory!
Xtra Time Web Desk: In a dramatic collapse, India's young cricket team suffered a 13-run defeat against Zimbabwe in the first T20I in Harare on Saturday. Chasing a modest target of 115 runs, the Indian batters fell like dominoes, losing four wickets inside the powerplay. The dismissals of Abhishek Sharma (0), Ruturaj Gaikwad (7), Riyan Parag (2), and Rinku Singh (0) left India reeling at the start.
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Captain Shubman Gill attempted to anchor the innings, scoring 31 runs, but his efforts were in vain as India struggled to post even 50 runs. Dhruv Jurel (7) and Avesh Khan (16) also provided some resistance, but the team was bundled out for 102 runs. Zimbabwe's captain Sikandar Raza was instrumental, taking three crucial wickets.
Earlier in the match, India had restricted Zimbabwe to 115 for nine, thanks to an impressive bowling performance by Ravi Bishnoi (4/13) and Washington Sundar (2/11). Despite a brisk start by Zimbabwe, who reached 40 for two in the powerplay, their innings faltered after Bishnoi's breakthroughs. Wessly Madhevere (21) and Brian Bennett (22) initially provided some stability, but Bishnoi's googlies dismantled their lineup.
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Sikandar Raza (17) and Clive Madande (29 not out) were the only notable contributors for Zimbabwe as they lost six wickets for 41 runs, finishing at 115 for nine. Despite the low target, India's batting lineup collapsed under pressure, resulting in their first T20I defeat of 2024.
