Abhishek Sharma’s pyrotechnics down Zimbabwe in second T20I

Having conceded the series opener astonishingly, India’s second-string team gave a way better account of themselves in the second game of the five-match T20I series.

It was a memorable day especially for Abhishek Sharma as he tonned up, sending Zimbabwe on a leather hunt as the visitors posted 234/2. The Chevrons could only manage 134 in reply, with Avesh Khan and Mukesh Kumar picking up three wickets each.

The T20 World Champions certainly have a deep talent pool and it augers well for them that those on the fringes are being exposed to international cricket. It was a bad day at office for Zimbabwe. The series is level at 1-1 and there’s a lot to play for. Expect a tough fight from the hosts as they are a resilient side, evinced by their victory in the opening clash.

Zimbabwe, with a point to prove after failing to qualify for the tournament in West Indies and USA, had staged an incredible comeback with the ball after a poor performance with the bat. The visitors couldn’t chase a meager total of 116, despite having seasoned cricketers in their ranks.