India began their three-match T20I series against Zimbabwe in commanding fashion, registering a seven-wicket victory on Thursday. The visitors chased down a target of 126 in just 13.2 overs, with teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi producing a breathtaking half-century and Mayank Yadav marking his international return with an impressive spell.

The win also gave Shreyas Iyer his first victory as India’s T20I captain after a difficult start to his leadership stint during the tours of Ireland and England.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi announces himself with blazing fifty

After a quiet start to his international career in England earlier this month, 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi made a strong statement in familiar surroundings. Returning to the venue where he had scored a remarkable 175 off 80 balls in the Under-19 World Cup final earlier this year, the youngster showcased his attacking range from the outset.

While opening partner Abhishek Sharma struggled to get going and managed just 1 from 8 deliveries, Sooryavanshi took charge of the chase.

He launched Richard Ngarava for two spectacular sixes in the second over. The first came with a one-legged pull over deep square leg, while the next was lofted cleanly over mid-off after creating room. Blessing Muzarabani also came under pressure as Sooryavanshi hammered a towering 90-metre straight six during the powerplay.

The left-hander raced to his maiden international half-century in only 18 balls, eventually scoring 50 from 19 deliveries with four boundaries and four sixes. His innings ended immediately after reaching the milestone when he was caught at third man off Ngarava.

Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer complete the chase

Following Sooryavanshi’s dismissal, there were no further hiccups for India. Ishan Kishan contributed 35 off 24 balls, while captain Shreyas Iyer remained unbeaten on 28 from 24 deliveries to guide the visitors home with plenty of overs to spare.

India comfortably overhauled Zimbabwe’s total of 125 for 7, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

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Mayank Yadav shines on comeback

Earlier in the evening, Mayank Yadav enjoyed an impressive return to international cricket after being sidelined since October 2024.

The fast bowler, who underwent surgery following a stress fracture last year, made an immediate impact by dismissing opener Brian Bennett with the very first ball of the match. Although the on-field umpire turned down the appeal, India successfully overturned the decision through DRS after the delivery found the outside edge.

Mayank consistently clocked speeds above 145 kmph, using sharp pace and hard lengths to trouble Zimbabwe’s batters throughout his spell. He struck again in the fifth over when Dion Myers mistimed a pull shot, giving India complete control during the powerplay.

Zimbabwe struggle after early collapse

India opted to bowl first after Shreyas Iyer won the toss, despite not being fully familiar with the playing conditions.

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Zimbabwe’s innings never gained momentum after losing an early wicket. The hosts slipped to 26 for 3 inside the powerplay, and their troubles deepened when captain Sikandar Raza was caught at deep square leg while attempting to attack Shivam Dube.

With the score reduced to 32 for 4 in the eighth over, Zimbabwe needed a rebuilding effort.

Ryan Burl made 26 off 35 balls, Wessly Madhevere added 38 from 34 deliveries, and Tadiwanashe Marumani remained unbeaten on 27 off 20 balls. Their partnership helped Zimbabwe recover enough to post 125 for 7, though the total ultimately proved well below par.

Marumani entertained with a few clean strikes through the cow corner region, but India kept the scoring under control.

Ravi Bishnoi also delivered a disciplined spell, finishing with figures of 1 for 24 from his four overs after enduring a difficult return during India’s tour of the United Kingdom.

Powered by Sooryavanshi’s fearless batting and Mayank Yadav’s high-speed bowling, India wrapped up a convincing victory to make the perfect start to the T20I series against Zimbabwe.

FAQs

How many runs did Vaibhav Sooryavanshi score against Zimbabwe?

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi scored a blistering 50 off just 19 balls, including four fours and four sixes.

How did Mayank Yadav perform in his comeback match?

Mayank Yadav struck with the first ball of the match and impressed with his pace, helping India restrict Zimbabwe to 125/7.