Zimbabwe’s Chevrons suffered a tough 72-run defeat to India in their Super 8 clash at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup on Thursday, but there were plenty of positives to take from the performance despite facing one of the world’s strongest sides.
Asked to field first in Chennai, Zimbabwe saw India post a towering 256 for 4 — the second-highest total in T20 World Cup history — powered by powerful half-centuries from Abhishek Sharma and Hardik Pandya. The Indian batters took advantage of favourable conditions to launch a relentless assault, hitting boundaries and sixes with clinical precision.
Chasing a formidable target of 257, the Chevrons showed real heart with the bat. Brian Bennett produced a superb innings, finishing unbeaten on 97 from 59 balls with eight fours and six sixes, continuing his wonderful form in the tournament. Unfortunately for Bennett and Zimbabwe, he ran out of deliveries just shy of a maiden T20I century — but his effort was a standout in an otherwise challenging match.
There were encouraging contributions elsewhere too, with Sikandar Raza offering some resistance, but Zimbabwe never quite found enough support to consistently put pressure back on India’s bowlers.
While the margin of defeat was significant, it was clear that Zimbabwe competed with intent and skill against a far deeper and more experienced cricketing powerhouse. Rather than dwell on the scoreline, there is much to be proud of, especially Bennett’s composed display. This tournament has already delivered memorable moments for the Chevrons, and with further opportunities ahead, it’s important fans remain optimistic about what this spirited side can achieve.
