In a high-stakes Super 8 clash at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on February 26, 2026, defending champions India produced a clinical all-round performance to crush Zimbabwe by 72 runs. Batting first after losing the toss, India posted a mammoth 256/4 — the second-highest total in T20 World Cup history — before restricting Zimbabwe to 184/6.
Explosive Start: Abhishek Sharma Finds Form in Style
The innings kicked off with fireworks as Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson (24 off 15) added 48 in quick time. Abhishek, who had struggled earlier in the tournament, roared back with a confident 55 off just 30 balls, including several trademark sixes and scoops. The Hindi commentary in the highlights video hails his “confidence-building shots” and aggressive intent right from the powerplay.
Ishan Kishan also enjoyed a free-hit moment that the commentators celebrated loudly, adding to the early momentum. Suryakumar Yadav chipped in with a rapid 33 off 13, keeping the scoreboard ticking at a furious rate.
Death-Overs Carnage: Hardik Pandya & Tilak Varma Seal the Record Total
The real showstopper came in the final overs. Hardik Pandya and Tilak Varma unleashed an unbroken 84-run partnership off just 31 deliveries, smashing boundaries and sixes at will. Hardik brought up a 23-ball fifty with a monstrous six, while Tilak Varma (44* off 16) matched him strike-for-strike with clean hitting on both sides of the wicket.
The Hindi commentators were in full voice, describing the “big shots,” “scoops,” and “power-packed finishing” as India crossed 250 — a total that left Zimbabwe shell-shocked.
Zimbabwe’s Brave Resistance Led by Brian Bennett
Zimbabwe never gave up. Opener Brian Bennett played a statement knock of 97* off 59 balls, anchoring the chase and launching some breathtaking strokes, including a memorable 26-run over. Sikandar Raza (31 off 21) and Tadiwanashe Marumani (20) provided support, but the required run rate proved too steep.
The highlights video shows Bennett’s grit and the crowd’s appreciation, with commentators noting how he “fought till the end” and earned respect from both sides.
Arshdeep Singh & Co. Keep Control with the Ball
India’s bowlers, led by Arshdeep Singh’s impressive 3/24, never let Zimbabwe build momentum. Key wickets fell at regular intervals — including sharp catches by Tilak Varma and Sikandar Raza (yes, the all-rounder took a blinder in the field too). Axar Patel, Varun Chakravarthy, and others chipped in to ensure the target remained out of reach.
The Hindi commentary highlights the “slow balls,” “crucial breakthroughs,” and “excellent fielding” that dismantled Zimbabwe’s middle order.
What It Means for the Semi-Final Race
This comprehensive win gives India two points and sets up a virtual quarter-final against West Indies on Sunday in Kolkata. A strong result there could seal a semi-final spot. For Zimbabwe, despite Bennett’s heroics, the campaign ends with elimination after two Super 8 losses.
Hardik Pandya was named Player of the Match for his explosive finishing.
Video Source: YouTube
