IND vs ZIM T20 World Cup 2026: India Score 256, Beat Zimbabwe by 72 Runs

India delivered a powerful all-round performance to defeat Zimbabwe by 72 runs in the Super 8 stage of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, keeping their semifinal hopes alive. Playing at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium, India posted a massive 256/4 in 20 overs — the second-highest total in T20 World Cup history — before restricting Zimbabwe to 184/6.

This was India’s first win in the Super 8 phase and a strong statement after recent setbacks. The result has set up a virtual knockout clash against the West Indies in Kolkata.

India’s Batting Unit Fires as a Team

Unlike earlier matches where India depended on individual brilliance, this game showcased a complete team effort. No Indian batter scored a century, yet the collective performance powered the team to a record total.

Abhishek Sharma smashed 55 off 30 balls, providing an aggressive start. Hardik Pandya remained unbeaten on 50 off just 23 deliveries, finishing the innings in style. Contributions from Suryakumar Yadav (33 off 13), Ishan Kishan (38 off 24), and Tilak Varma (44 off 18) ensured the momentum never dropped.

Tilak Varma stood out with a remarkable strike rate of 275, hitting four sixes and three boundaries. His ability to accelerate in the death overs gave India the final push past the 250-run mark. Sanju Samson’s quick 24 off 15 balls also played a tactical role at the top, helping counter Zimbabwe’s bowling plans.

India crossed 250 in T20Is for the fifth time, but this was the first instance without a single century — underlining the strength of their batting depth.

Zimbabwe Fight Back but Fall Short

Chasing 257 was always going to be difficult. Zimbabwe’s Brian Bennett fought valiantly with a well-compiled 97 off 59 balls, keeping his team in the contest for a brief period. He stitched a 72-run partnership with skipper Sikandar Raza, but the required rate proved too steep.

India’s bowlers maintained discipline despite the humid Chennai conditions. Arshdeep Singh was the pick of the bowlers, claiming three wickets, including the crucial dismissal of Raza. Zimbabwe eventually finished at 184/6, falling well short of the target.

Tactical Edge and Turning Point

Zimbabwe opted for pace during the powerplay instead of spin, even though India had struggled against off-spin earlier in the tournament. The decision backfired as India raced to 80 runs in the powerplay, setting the platform for a huge total.

Earlier in the day, South Africa’s win over the West Indies significantly improved India’s semifinal scenario. With this victory, India remain firmly in the race and now face a crucial encounter that could decide their place in the final four.

The emphatic win in Chennai has restored belief within the Indian camp and among fans, as the team regains momentum at a decisive stage of the tournament.