Chennai’s MA Chidambaram Stadium witnessed India’s batting fireworks on Thursday, as the hosts demolished Zimbabwe by 72 runs in a crucial T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 clash. The result ensured South Africa’s semifinal qualification while keeping India’s dreams intact.
Group 1 standings reflect the drama: South Africa tops with +2.890 NRR from two wins, West Indies holds second at +1.791, India third at -0.100, and Zimbabwe out after two losses.
Batting first after losing the toss, India openers Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson raced to 48/1 in 3.4 overs. Ishan Kishan then partnered Sharma for 72 runs, falling for 38 off 24. Sharma’s 55 (30 balls, 4×6, 4×4) set the tone, with Suryakumar Yadav adding 33.
At 172/4, Hardik Pandya and Tilak Varma exploded, unbeaten on 50 (23 balls) and 44 (16 balls) respectively, forging 84 runs in 31 balls to hit 256/4. Zimbabwe bowlers Richard Ngarewa, Blessing Muzarabani, Tinotenda Maposa, and Sikandar Raza claimed one wicket apiece.
Zimbabwe’s reply started promisingly with 44 from Bennett and Marumani, but faltered. Bennett’s masterful 97* (59 balls) included partnerships with Dion Myers (6) and Raza (72-run stand), yet the team folded at 184/6. Arshdeep’s 3/24 proved decisive, with Chakaravarthy, Patel, and Dube chipping in.
India’s clinical performance underscores their depth, positioning them strongly for the semifinals amid fierce competition.