Daijiworld Media Network - Kolkata
Kolkata, Feb 27: Defending champions India stormed back into contention for a semi-final berth at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup with a commanding 72-run victory over Zimbabwe in their Super 8 clash on Thursday.
After suffering a 76-run defeat to South Africa earlier in the Super 8 stage, the India national cricket team, led by Suryakumar Yadav, responded in emphatic fashion by posting a record 256/4 in 20 overs — the highest team total in the history of the tournament.
Opening the charge, Abhishek Sharma returned to his explosive best, smashing 55 off just 30 balls, including four fours and four sixes. Later, Hardik Pandya produced a blistering unbeaten 50 off 23 deliveries, striking two fours and four sixes to propel India past the 250-mark.
It was India’s highest-ever total in T20 World Cup history and the biggest score recorded in the 2026 edition.
Zimbabwe, after opting to bowl first, mounted a spirited chase but ultimately fell 72 runs short of the daunting target.
Super 8 group 1 points table
1. South Africa – 4 points (2 matches), NRR +2.890
2. West Indies – 2 points (2 matches), NRR +1.791
3. India – 2 points (2 matches), NRR -0.100
4. Zimbabwe – 0 points (2 matches), NRR -4.475
South Africa have already sealed a semi-final spot from Group 1. The second berth will now be decided between India and the West Indies cricket team.
Remaining fixtures
• March 1: South Africa vs Zimbabwe (3 PM)
• March 1: India vs West Indies (7 PM) at Eden Gardens