Mumbai Super Eights Rout: West Indies Crush Zimbabwe by 107 Runs
The Mumbai Super Eights rout lit up the T20 World Cup on Monday. West Indies crushed Zimbabwe by 107 runs in a one-sided contest. The Caribbean side set the tone early and never looked back.
Shimron Hetmyer led the charge with a blistering 85 off 34 balls. He attacked from the start and punished every loose delivery. As a result, his team piled up 254-6, the second-highest total in tournament history.
Zimbabwe chose to bowl after winning the toss. However, that decision quickly backfired. Their bowlers struggled for control and paid the price.
Power-Hitting Sets the Stage
Hetmyer received a lifeline on nine when a catch went down. He made Zimbabwe regret it immediately. In addition, he reached his fifty in just 19 balls. Rovman Powell supported him with a steady 59. Together, they built a rapid 122-run partnership. Therefore, the pressure kept rising with every over. Sherfane Rutherford added an unbeaten 31 from 13 balls. Romario Shepherd and Jason Holder finished strongly. Consequently, 38 runs came from the final two overs.
Bowlers Seal the Deal
Zimbabwe faced trouble from the start of the chase. They slipped to 20-3 inside three overs. Akeal Hosein struck early with sharp spin. Gudakesh Motie turned the ball brilliantly and claimed 4-28. Hosein grabbed three wickets as well. As a result, Zimbabwe never threatened the target.
Brad Evans hit five sixes in a late cameo. Still, his 43 was not enough. The innings ended at 147 in 17.4 overs. Only Sri Lanka has scored more in a World Cup match. This dominant display sends a strong message. West Indies look ready for bigger battles ahead.
