India shocked by Zimbabwe again

Zimbabwe thrashed India by a seven-wicket margin to register their second win in the tri-series. The hosts also earned a bonus point to go with their crushing victory. India were held down to 194 for nine as Greg Lamb took three wickets for 45 runs and Andy Blignaut also came up with a major contribution, taking one wicket but giving away only 22 runs off his 10 overs.

Zimbabwe overhauled the paltry total in the 39th over that gave them a bonus point as well to go with four for the victory. An opening partnership of 128 between Brendan Taylor (74) and Hamilton Masakadza (66) set the platform for the easy win and Zimbabwe’s captain Elton Chigumbura was full of praise for the opening duo.

“They set a perfect start for us in the run chase, and it was plain sailing from there,” said Chigumbura. “It’s a good comeback after the last game. Our bowlers bowled well, especially Blignaut was outstanding.”

India’s captain Suresh Raina, who on the eve of the tour had claimed that the team had no weakness, admitted, “We are still just in the tournament. But we will have to play outstanding cricket in our final game against Sri Lanka on Saturday.”

India have just four points from three games while Zimbabwe - having won two out of three - sit at the top of the table with nine points from three matches. Sri Lanka have five points from two games.

Published in the Express Tribune, June 4^th, 2010.