“The heavy roller in innings break did the trick”: Zimbabwe skipper Raza

Following his side’s 10-wicket loss to India, Zimbabwe skipper Sikandar Raza remarked that the use of a roller during the mid-inning break improved the pitch for the ‘Men in Blue.’ He added that even a total of 180 would not have been enough against the formidable opening pair of Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal.

Fine half-centuries from Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill helped India secure a series win over Zimbabwe by defeating the hosts in the fourth T20I of the five-match series at Harare on Saturday.

During the post-match presentation, Raza said, “I think the wicket was a bit damp, and we thought 160 was par. But with the way they batted, even 180 would not have been enough. We keep growing and learning from each game. I think eight-ten runs more in the last 5 overs.”

“There was a bit of kick and bounce, so we had to rein ourselves in at the start of the inning. The heavy roller in the innings break did the trick for them; it became a beautiful wicket, and they could play on the up. There is a game tomorrow, and even if we lose 3-2, then we can keep our head high,” he added.

In the match, India won the toss and opted to field first. A solid 63-run opening stand between Wessly Madhevere (25 off 24 balls, with four boundaries) and Tadiwanashe Marumani (32 off 31 balls, with three fours) gave Zimbabwe a steady start. Indian bowlers then took wickets at regular intervals, but skipper Sikandar Raza held one end steady with his knock of 46 off 28 balls, including two fours and three sixes. Zimbabwe posted 152/7 in their 20 overs.

Khaleel Ahmed (2/32) was the pick of the bowlers for India. Shivam Dube, Abhishek Sharma, Washington Sundar, and debutant Tushar Deshpande each took a wicket.

During the run chase, openers Yashasvi Jaiswal (93* off 53 balls, with 13 fours and two sixes) and skipper Gill (58* off 39 balls, with six fours and two sixes) led India to a resounding victory, with all 10 wickets and 28 balls in hand.

With this win, India holds a 3-1 unassailable series lead over Zimbabwe, with one game remaining.

Jaiswal was named ‘Player of the Match’ for his outstanding knock.