Shreyas Iyer was on a six-match losing streak as a T20I captain before the ZIM vs IND series in Harare. The Men in Blue finally registered a win in the shortest format of the game under Iyer’s leadership when the visitors went past the challenge of Zimbabwe on July 23 at the Harare Sports Club. Chasing 126, the Indian National Cricket Team registered a seven-wicket victory in 13.2 overs, with Iyer remaining unbeaten on 28 runs off 24 balls.
The chase was set up by 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who scored 50 runs off 19 balls, including 4 boundaries and as many sixes. He added important runs with Abhishek Sharma and wicket-keeper Ishan Kishan.
“I think the boys were tremendous. Couldn’t have been happier with my first win. There was bounce from good length, and it was also variable. I felt it was there in both innings. The start Mayank gave was great. We are going to play two more matches here, so today’s performance gives everyone some confidence,” Iyer said.
The 31-year-old also hailed Vaibhav for his magnificent batting display.
“I think Vaibhav has played here. He got 175 in the U-19 World Cup final, so he knows the conditions,” he added.
Earlier, Zimbabwe reached 125 for 7 on a wicket that had something for the bowlers.
Only four batters Wessly Madhevere (39 off 34), Tadiwanashe Marumani (27* off 20), Ryan Burl (26 off 35) and Ben Curran (10 off 8) entered the double-digit mark.
Indian pacers Mayank Yadav and Prince Yadav were brilliant with the new ball, taking two wickets each in the game.
Shivam Dube and Ravi Bishnoi also picked up one scalp each. With a 1-0 lead, India will aim to clinch the series when the two teams meet for the second game on July 25.
Mayank was named the Player of the Match on his return to international cricket.
Comments are closed.