Chennai’s MA Chidambaram Stadium witnessed pure carnage on Thursday as India unleashed an unprecedented powerplay assault against Zimbabwe in the T20 World Cup 2026 Super-8 stage. The hosts raced to 80 runs losing only one wicket in the first six overs – the highest ever powerplay score by any team against Zimbabwe in T20 World Cup annals.
This feat slots into India’s elite company: their third-best powerplay in the tournament’s history. Recollect the 86/1 against Namibia or the 82/2 versus Scotland in 2021 – now joined by this masterclass. Back in 2007, a 76/1 against New Zealand had set benchmarks; today, India raised the bar higher.
Opting to bowl first after winning the toss? No issue for Suryakumar Yadav’s men. Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson ignited the innings with 48 runs in 22 balls. Samson’s explosive 24 (15 balls, 2×6, 1×4) ended prematurely, but Ishan Kishan joined Sharma to plunder 72 more runs.
Sharma’s unbeaten 55 off 30 balls showcased his maturity, complemented by Kishan’s 38. Team changes added intrigue: Axar Patel in for Washington Sundar, Samson returning ahead of Rinku Singh. Full India XI: Samson (wk), Sharma, Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah.
Zimbabwe shuffled too, with Tinotenda Maposa for Kramer. Raza’s squad: Marumani (wk), Bennett, Myers, Burl, Munyonga, Muskiewa, Evans, Maposa, Muzarabani, Ngarava.
This powerplay explosion not only demoralizes Zimbabwe but cements India’s status as title contenders. The middle overs promise more drama as India eyes a massive total.