Zimbabwe stuns India with 13-run victory in T20 series opener

Zimbabwe stunned India with a 13-run victory in the opening T20I of their five-match series at Harare Sports Club on Saturday. Opting to bat first, Zimbabwe struggled to 115/9, with Ravi Bishnoi's career-best 4 for 13 and Washington Sundar's 2 for 11 restricting the hosts.

In response, India faltered, getting bowled out for just 102 runs. Shubman Gill's team struggled from the outset, losing wickets early in the powerplay and failing to recover. Gill top-scored with 31, but lacked support as Zimbabwe's bowlers, led by captain Sikandar Raza's 3 wickets, kept the pressure on.

Despite a valiant effort from Washington Sundar (27) towards the end, India fell short, unable to build partnerships or maintain momentum. Zimbabwe's victory marked their third win over India in T20Is, leveling their record with Pakistan in such encounters.

The next match of the series is scheduled for Sunday at the same venue, with India looking to bounce back and level the series against an upbeat Zimbabwean side.