India’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign roared into life with a resounding 72-run victory over Zimbabwe in Chennai. At the heart of the triumph was Hardik Pandya’s explosive unbeaten 50 off 23 balls—four sixes, two fours—that clinched him Player of the Match. Alongside Tilak Varma’s 44 not out, they forged an 84-run partnership in 31 balls, catapulting India to 256 for 4.
Zimbabwe stuttered in reply, bowled out for 184 for 6. In his match-winning innings, Pandya had a pivotal realization. ‘I was trying too hard to hit big, but mid-match, I trusted timing instead—and the sixes flowed,’ he revealed. ‘It was satisfying after a few off-form games; this restores my confidence.’
Pandya’s bowling was equally impressive, leaking just 21 runs in three overs. ‘New ball swing is my ally, with both inswing and outswing in my arsenal,’ he said proudly.
Timing couldn’t have been better, as South Africa’s earlier 9-wicket demolition of West Indies boosted India’s net run rate hopes. Pandya confirmed the team monitored it closely. ‘Post that game, we zoned in on ours. Pressure handling and skill trust are key now.’
This comprehensive win positions India strongly, with Pandya’s dual-impact performance heralding a potential title charge.