(Source X)
The third T20I of the India tour of Zimbabwe 2024 witnessed an intense clash between Sikandar Raza’s Zimbabwe and Shubman Gill’s India at Harare Sports Club.
The Chevrons, led by Sikandar Raza, were eager to bounce back after a disheartening defeat in the second T20I following their impressive performance in the series opener. Their determination paid off as they managed to upset the star-studded Indian side by a margin of 13 runs.
Despite a lackluster batting display, Zimbabwe relied on their bowlers to turn the tide. Posting a modest total of 115 runs, they initially seemed outmatched against India’s batting prowess. However, a stellar bowling effort restricted the visitors to just 102 all out in 19.5 overs.
The subsequent match, though, saw Zimbabwe facing a stark reversal of fortunes. India unleashed a dominant batting performance, amassing a formidable 234 runs. In reply, Zimbabwe struggled to 134, resulting in a demoralizing 100-run defeat. Their batting lineup faltered, failing to unsettle the Indian bowlers, with only two players managing to cross the 30-run mark.
In the third encounter, India opted to bat first once more. Despite Zimbabwean bowlers’ commendable efforts, a lack of support in the field allowed India to reach 182/4. Sikandar Raza and Blessing Muzarabani stood out, claiming two wickets each for the hosts.
During the chase, Zimbabwe’s top order faltered again, putting immense pressure on the team. Dion Myers exhibited resilience with a crucial 65-run contribution, but Zimbabwe fell short by 23 runs, conceding the series to India.
I think it’s the fielding again, we are proud of our fielding but the wheels came off today – Sikandar Raza
During the post-match presentation, Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza sharply criticized his team’s fielding lapses, attributing them to dropped catches that ultimately led to their defeat. Sikandar Raza emphasized:
“I think it’s the fielding again, we are proud of our fielding but the wheels came off today, we gave away 20 extra runs and we lost by 23 runs. We still have problems at the top but I have utmost faith in them that they will come good some time.”
Sikandar Raza addressed Zimbabwe’s opening pair, noting they’ve tested 15 different combinations without success. He also criticized senior players for failing to deliver in crucial moments, stating:
“We have tried 15 different partners (openers) in the last year and a half or so. There is a lot of cricket going on in the country and club cricket has revived. It’s time that our players including myself take up the responsibility. The youngsters making mistakes is acceptable but the senior players need to step up. You cannot fix a problem by creating another problem, we have picked 3 openers for a reason. The openers that have been picked up should be given a run.”
Sikandar Raza concluded by commending pacer Blessing Muzarabani for maintaining his impressive bowling form. He remarked:
“(On Muzarabani) He has been outstanding, sometimes the rewards don’t come but in the long run the rewards do come.”
