Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar praised India’s intent after their must-win Super 8 victory over Zimbabwe and urged the team to carry the same momentum forward.
India stayed alive in the T20 World Cup 2026 with a commanding 72-run win over the Sikandar Raza-led Zimbabwe in Chennai, posting their highest total of the tournament and showing the urgency the situation demanded. Taking to X after the game, Tendulkar summed it up simply: must-win games test temperament, and India showed plenty.
IND vs ZIM T20 WORLD CUP 2026: HIGHLIGHTS | SCORECARD
“Must-win games reveal temperament. 256 revealed plenty! Highest total of this T20 World Cup, and what stood out was the intent throughout the game today. Well played, India, take this rhythm into the next game. Congratulations to Zimbabwe as well on a great tournament!”
With the pressure of elimination looming after their loss to South Africa, India responded with a performance built on aggressive batting and disciplined bowling to keep their semi-final hopes alive.
HOW INDIA CONQUERED ZIMBABWE
Asked to bat first, India came out with attacking intent from the start. Abhishek Sharma, finally finding his form with some fresh and controlled intent, led the way with a brisk 55 off 30 balls, setting the tone early in the innings.
Hardik Pandya then took charge in the closing overs, finishing unbeaten on 50 from 23 deliveries. Tilak Varma added late acceleration with a 44 not out off just 16 balls as India surged to 256 for 4 — their highest total of the tournament.
Zimbabwe fought back through Brian Bennett, who remained unbeaten on 97, but lacked support from the rest of the batting unit. Arshdeep Singh’s three-wicket spell ensured India stayed in control as Zimbabwe finished on 184 for 6.
CAN INDIA MAKE IT TO THE SEMI-FINAL?
The win significantly boosted India’s net run rate and kept them in contention alongside West Indies for the remaining semi-final spot from the group.
Their final Super 8 clash against West Indies in Kolkata now becomes decisive. A win will send India through to the semi-finals, while a defeat will end their campaign.
T20 World Cup | T20 World Cup Schedule | T20 World Cup Points Table | T20 World Cup Videos | Cricket News | Live Score
