Zimbabwe’s cricketers are picking themselves up after India completed a 3-0 sweep of the July Twenty20 series in Harare.
All three matches were played at Harare Sports Club, and India’s power told throughout. In the second T20I on 25 July the visitors won by 90 runs, posting 219 for 5 before bowling the Chevrons out for 129. The third game on 26 July was closer on paper, India winning by 35 runs after making 192 for 5 to Zimbabwe’s 157 for 7, but the outcome sealed a clean sweep.
The scorelines sting, yet there were flashes for Zimbabwe to build on. The batting showed intent in patches against a strong Indian attack, and the younger players gained priceless exposure to international pace and spin. The bowlers will know they leaked too many boundaries at the death, an area the coaching staff will target in the nets.
Attention now turns to a three-match one-day series against Australia, scheduled for September. The 50-over format may suit Zimbabwe better, giving the top order time to build and the seamers room to work. A strong showing at home would go a long way toward restoring confidence after a chastening month.
Where to bet: Zimbabwean cricket fans can find Chevrons markets on Africabet and Betway, with USD prices on match winner, top batsman and total runs for the Australia series. Compare the two books before each fixture to grab the best value. 18+. Gamble responsibly.
