India Clinches Series with Stellar Performances by Samson and Mukesh in Final T20I
Sanju Samson’s stellar performance (58 off 45 balls) and Mukesh Kumar’s disciplined bowling (4/22) powered India to a convincing 42-run victory over Zimbabwe in the fifth T20I, clinching the series 4-1. Samson’s innings, complemented by Shivam Dube’s quickfire 26 off 12 balls, propelled India to a competitive total of 167 for six. Despite an early setback with the dismissal of Wessly Madhevere, Zimbabwe’s hopes briefly flickered with a 44-run partnership between Tadiwanashe Marumani (27) and Dion Myers (34). However, Mukesh’s career-best performance and contributions from Dube (2/25) and Washington Sundar (1/7) ensured Zimbabwe were bowled out for 125 in 18.3 overs.
India’s innings started with promise as Yashasvi Jaiswal, who had remained unbeaten on 93 in the previous match, hit two sixes in the first two balls bowled by Sikandar Raza. However, Jaiswal’s promising start ended prematurely when he misjudged a delivery, getting bowled. Abhishek Sharma’s brief stint, including a drop catch and subsequent dismissal, left India at a precarious 44 for three. Skipper Shubman Gill’s lackluster performance further compounded India’s early woes.
Samson and Riyan Parag then steadied the ship with a prudent partnership, adding 65 runs for the fourth wicket. Their approach, focusing on choosing the right deliveries to hit, was crucial on a pitch that offered some turn. Samson’s aggression shone through as he hit leg-spinner Brandon Mavuto for consecutive sixes, displaying remarkable control and timing. Despite Parag’s departure while seeking acceleration and Samson’s eventual dismissal, Dube’s late-innings fireworks ensured India set a challenging target.
In Zimbabwe’s chase, Mukesh Kumar’s early strikes disrupted their momentum. The dismissal of Marumani, adjudged leg-before to Sundar’s well-placed delivery, and Myers’ mistimed shot off Dube’s quicker ball, spelled trouble for the hosts. A critical moment came with the run-out of skipper Sikandar Raza, triggering a collapse that saw Zimbabwe lose four wickets for just nine runs. Mukesh fittingly ended the innings by clean bowling Richard Ngarava, sealing India’s comprehensive win.
This victory highlighted India’s balanced team performance, with key contributions from both batsmen and bowlers. Samson’s resilience and Mukesh’s precision exemplified the depth and versatility of the squad. The series win also underscored India’s dominance and adaptability in different match situations, showcasing the team’s readiness for future challenges. As India celebrates this triumph, the focus on consistent performance and strategic gameplay remains pivotal in maintaining their winning momentum.