MUMBAI – West Indies kicked off their Super 8 campaign in the T20 World Cup with a thunderous 107-run victory over Zimbabwe at Wankhede Stadium. The Caribbean powerhouse posted a mammoth 254/6 in their 20 overs, a total that proved far too steep for the African side, who crumbled to 147 all out.
Shimron Hetmyer’s explosive 85 off 34 balls, laced with seven fours and seven sixes, set the tone for West Indies’ batting fireworks. Captain Rovman Powell followed suit with a brisk 59 off 35 deliveries, while Sherfane Rutherford’s unbeaten 31 off 13 balls added the finishing touches. Zimbabwe’s bowlers Blessing Muzarabani and Richard Ngarava picked up two wickets apiece, but couldn’t stem the tide.
Chasing 255, Zimbabwe’s innings imploded from the outset. Brian Bennett, a standout in the group stage, managed just 5. Wicketkeeper Tadiwanashe Marumani scratched around for 14, and Ryan Burl fell for a duck to Akeal Hosein. Dion Myers offered brief resistance with 28 off 15, but Gudakesh Motie’s lethal spell dismantled the middle order.
Captain Sikandar Raza fought gamely for 27 off 20, and Brad Evans top-scored with 43 off 21, but it wasn’t enough. Motie starred with the ball, claiming 4/28, while Hosein grabbed 3/28. West Indies’ bowlers showcased their depth and skill, turning the match into a rout.
This dominant performance sends a clear message to Super 8 rivals. West Indies, with their explosive batting and cunning spin attack, are primed for a deep run in the tournament. Zimbabwe, meanwhile, face an uphill battle to stay alive.