Shafali, Mandhana steer India to dominant 9-wicket win over Zimbabwe

India's opening combination proved far too strong for an inexperienced Zimbabwe side at the venue on Sunday, chasing down the target of 103 in just 8.5 overs to seal the second match of the series. The result was effectively decided after Zimbabwe's disappointing batting performance saw them restricted to 102 for eight after opting to bat first.

Shafali Verma led the charge with a blistering 55 off 25 balls, reaching her half-century in 26 deliveries with a six off off-spinner Beloved Biza. The aggressive display marked her 22nd T20 international half-century. She added 96 runs with skipper Mandhana, who contributed an unbeaten 47 to guide the chase with an assured hand.

The opening pair showcased their range and aggression throughout their partnership. Michelle Mavunga bore the brunt of Shafali's assault, conceding successive boundaries and a six in consecutive deliveries. Mandhana too capitalised on loose bowling, striking four consecutive fours off pacer Nyasha Gwanzura to emphasise India's dominance.

The victory marks a successful start to Mandhana's full-time captaincy tenure, having already secured the series with one match remaining on the schedule.

Photo: Shafali Verma batting for India against Bangladesh at the ICC Women's T20 World Cup, February 2020. Bahnfrend via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0).