NEW DELHI: Khaleel Ahmed and Ravi Bishnoi spearheaded the Indian bowling attack, restricting Zimbabwe to a competitive total of 152/7 in the fourth T20I at the Harare Sports Club on Saturday.
Despite a promising 63-run opening partnership between Wessly Madhevere (25) and Tadiwanashe Marumani (32), the Indian spinners managed to regain control of the game.
Bishnoi delivered an economical spell, conceding only 22 runs in his four overs, while Washington Sundar (1/32) and Abhishek Sharma (1/20) provided valuable support.
Zimbabwe's captain, Sikandar Raza, appeared to be on track for a half-century with his 46 runs off 28 balls, including '2x4s' and '3x6s'. However, India's debutant Tushar Deshpande successfully dismissed Raza, preventing him from reaching the milestone.
Sundar contributed with a wicket, while Bishnoi, despite not taking any scalps, maintained a tight economy rate and mounted pressure on the batsmen.
The Indian bowlers exhibited astuteness in their pace variations during the final overs, limiting Zimbabwe to a total just surpassing 150 runs.
Nevertheless, Zimbabwe have previously demonstrated their ability to defend a modest total in this series, which will bolster their confidence.
However, the current pitch appears to favour batting, and India will be self-assured in their pursuit to secure the series victory.
