MUMBAI: West Indies cricket team launched their Super Eights campaign in dominant style, defeating Zimbabwe national cricket team by 107 runs in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup at the Wankhede Stadium on Monday.A blistering 85 off just 34 balls from Shimron Hetmyer powered the Caribbean side to a commanding 254/6 — one of the highest totals of the tournament. After the early dismissal of Brandon King, Hetmyer counterattacked in spectacular fashion, smashing seven fours and seven sixes to wrest control of the innings.He forged a decisive 122-run stand for the third wicket with Rovman Powell, who struck a fluent 59 off 35 deliveries. Their aggressive strokeplay dismantled Zimbabwe’s bowling attack and firmly tilted the momentum in West Indies’ favour.
Late contributions from Romario Shepherd (21) and Sherfane Rutherford (31 not out) ensured a powerful finish. For Zimbabwe, Richard Ngarava and Blessing Muzarabani claimed two wickets each but struggled to stem the flow of runs.Chasing a daunting 255, Zimbabwe never found stability. A brisk 43 off 21 balls from Brad Evans offered brief resistance, while Dion Myers (28) and skipper Sikandar Raza (27) made modest contributions.
However, the Chevrons were bowled out for 147 in 17.4 overs.Left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie starred with the ball, returning impressive figures of 4/28 in four overs. Akeal Hosein provided strong support with three wickets, while Matthew Forde chipped in with two to seal a comprehensive victory.The emphatic win gives West Indies strong early momentum in the Super Eights stage of the tournament.
