The West Indies remained undefeated after a commanding 107‑run victory against Zimbabwe in their first Super 8 fixture of the ICC Cricket World Cup on February 23. Both teams entered the match at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai unbeaten, with Zimbabwe making their debut in the Super 8 stage at a T20 World Cup.
Zimbabwe’s captain Sikandar Raza won the toss and opted to field. Despite losing both openers, the West Indies posted 55/2 at the end of the powerplay. Zimbabwe would regret dropping in‑form Shimron Hetmyer on 9, as the Guyanese went on to smash a 19‑ball half‑century, the fastest by a West Indian in T20 World Cup history and joint fastest of the tournament. He was dropped again on 70 before eventually departing for a blistering 85 off 34 balls, featuring 7 fours and 7 sixes.
Hetmyer’s fireworks came alongside former skipper Rovman Powell, who contributed a solid 59 off 35 deliveries. Their 122‑run partnership set the tone, while Sherfane Rutherford (31 off 13) and Romario Shepherd (21 off 10) added late cameos to lift the West Indies to a massive 254/6 in 20 overs.
In reply, Zimbabwe stumbled to 47/3 after the powerplay and never recovered. Akeal Hosein, with three for 28, and Gudakesh Motie, whose four for 28 were career‑best T20I figures, ripped through the batting order. Matthew Forde chipped in with two wickets.
Zimbabwe’s lone highlight was a 44‑run last‑wicket stand, the highest for the 10th wicket in T20 World Cup history.
The Men in Maroon now turn their focus to South Africa, the only other undefeated team in the tournament, in a crucial clash on Thursday as they aim to secure a semifinal spot.
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