India defeated Zimbabwe by 72 runs in a crucial T20 World Cup Super Eight match played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Thursday, February 26, 2026, keeping their semi-final hopes alive.
The defending champions set a challenging target of 257 for Zimbabwe, who displayed spirited resistance throughout their innings. Despite a remarkable 97 not out from Zimbabwe opener Brian Bennett, the African side fell short, finishing at 184-6.
India’s victory was built on a strong batting performance, spearheaded by Abhishek Sharma, who scored 55 off 30 balls. Sanju Samson, returning to the playing XI, made an immediate impact with a quickfire 24 off 15 balls, including a six off the second delivery he faced. His aggressive start allowed Sharma to settle and build his innings.
Hardik Pandya provided a late flourish, smashing a 50 off 23 balls and combining with Tilak Varma in an 84-run partnership that included eight sixes and five fours. This late surge propelled India beyond the 250-run mark.
Arshdeep Singh was the pick of the Indian bowlers, claiming 3-24 in his four overs. Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya maintained tight control, conceding only 21 runs between them in their combined three overs, despite remaining wicketless. Axar Patel, Varun Chakravarthy, and Shivam Dube each took one wicket.
The win does not alter India’s position in the Group 1 points table, but sets up a decisive match against the West Indies on Sunday in Kolkata. South Africa have already secured a semi-final berth after defeating the West Indies in Mumbai on Thursday. Zimbabwe will face South Africa in Latest Delhi on Sunday.
India are likely to develop a couple of changes to the playing XI. Sanju Samson is expected to return to the side. All-rounder Axar Patel is similarly expected to reach back after being benched in the previous game against South Africa. Rinku Singh’s place in the playing XI is also in doubt after he left home for a family emergency ahead of the Zimbabwe game.
