Gill and Sundar lead India to a 23-run victory against Zimbabwe.

Captain Shubman Gill led from the front with a fluent half-century as India secured a 23-run victory over hosts Zimbabwe in the third T20 international in Harare on Wednesday, taking a 2-1 lead in the five-match series.

In the absence of several members of their recent World Cup-winning squad, a youthful Indian team opted to bat first and posted a competitive total of 182 for four in their allotted 20 overs. Zimbabwe, despite a shaky start, managed to reach 159 for six by the end of their innings, largely due to an unbeaten 65 from 49 balls by Dion Myers.

Gill’s innings was pivotal, scoring 66 off 49 balls, while Ruturaj Gaikwad contributed a quickfire 49 from 28 balls to bolster India’s score. The Zimbabwean bowling attack was largely contained, with only Blessing Muzarabani (2-25) and Sikandar Raza (2-24) making significant breakthroughs.

Zimbabwe faltered early in their chase, finding themselves at 39 for five after seven overs. However, a resilient partnership of 77 runs for the sixth wicket between Myers and Clive Madande (37 off 26 balls) briefly revived their hopes of a comeback.

India’s Washington Sundar played a crucial role with the ball, taking 3-15 in his four overs, including the important wicket of Madande, ensuring a comfortable victory for the visitors in the end.