Shubman Gill scored his first international century for India in the Zimbabwe series. While Sanju Samson, who is a hard hitter, returned to the Indian team post ICC T20 World Cup 2024 and eventually made his international debut in Zimbabwe. For many years, the Zimbabwe series has been special for Indian cricketers because it shows the transitioning of these players from being freshers to senior players periodically. The latest edition, captained by Shubman Gill under the stewardship of VVS Laxman, witnessed India winning a memorable series.
In the fifth and final T20I at Harare Sports Club, Sanju Samson played another vital innings, scoring 58 runs off 35 balls, as he put on a stand of 65 runs for the fourth wicket along with Riyan Parag, who contributed 22 runs. This helped India get to a formidable total of 167-6 in 20 overs. Another convincing victory, this time by 42 runs against Zimbabwe, wrapped up the series 4-1 for India. Glancing at this victory, vice-captain Samson put forward his opinions on the excellence of India’s bowlers.
Reactions & celebrations! 👏 🏆
That's a Wrap from Zimbabwe! 👍 #TeamIndia | #ZIMvIND pic.twitter.com/ZjrUw2Hns2
— BCCI (@BCCI) July 15, 2024
“We were three wickets down, so I knew I needed to stitch a partnership with Riyan. Fortunately, we did that and set up a competitive total to defend. Our bowlers were really good in their planning and execution. You can’t really ask for more from them; they know very clearly what their roles are,” Samson told BCCI during an interview. He cited the camaraderie in the team as a brotherly feeling that helps them perform better on the field.
Team captain Shubman Gill admitted that the series was full of ups and downs after losing the opening match against Zimbabwe by 13 runs. However, they recovered hard to win all the remaining four games of the series. All-rounder Washington Sundar was adjourned the Player of the Series for his consistent performances.
“Sometimes we need to tighten our game, which is very important in these kinds of tournaments. I have represented most of these boys at different levels, so captaincy wasn’t that tough for me. My maiden international ton here in Zimbabwe and winning the series as a captain, it’s very special to me,” Gill said. If asked to sum up his experience of the series in one word, Gill described it in one word: spectacular.
The next challenge for India will come against Sri Lanka in an upcoming six-match series and continue the journey of Indian cricket, enriched with new challenges and triumphs.
