Zimbabwe’s Super 8 journey in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup hit a bump on Monday as the Chevrons suffered a heavy 107-run loss to the West Indies at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. While the margin was significant, there were encouraging signs for fans who know this team’s heart and character.
The West Indies posted a colossal 254 for 6 — the second-highest total in T20 World Cup history — powered by a blistering 85 from Shimron Hetmyer and a strong 59 from Rovman Powell. Their relentless big-hitting, including 19 sixes, proved too much to contain.
Zimbabwe’s bowlers showed fight, with Blessing Muzarabani and Richard Ngarava picking up wickets, and at one stage the Chevrons looked well organised. There were even early breakthroughs, with Ngarava dismissing an opener before a spectacular catch by Brian Bennett removed Hetmyer — a moment that lifted the team and the travelling supporters alike.
The chase didn’t go Zimbabwe’s way as they were eventually dismissed for 147, with Brad Evans offering some resistance with 43 late in the innings. But beyond the scoreline, there was commitment and belief in patches that suggest this team hasn’t given up.
Heavy defeats are never easy to take, especially on the world stage, but this Chevrons side has already shown it can compete — notably in rarer moments of success against higher-ranked teams earlier in the tournament. Rather than lose heart, Zimbabweans can recognise that experiences like this build resilience and help refine skills against the very best.
There remains cricket to be played, and the Chevrons will be looking to bounce back with pride and passion — exactly the way this team has earned the admiration of many.
