Singapore celebrate historic T20I win over Zimbabwe
Hosts Singapore surged to a thrilling a four-run victory over Zimbabwe at the Indian Association Ground, Singapore on Sunday (29th Septemeber). This is now their first-ever win over an ICC full member nation. In the 18-over per side match, the hosts managed to defend 181 runs against the struggling African nation. This match is a part of the ongoing tri-series between Singapore, Nepal and Zimbabwe.
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Singapore find steady contributors
After a loss in the opening game against Nepal, the host side batted better against the more seasoned opponents. The opening pair of Rohan Rangarajan and Surendran Chandramohan added 62 runs in the powerplay. Zimbabwe fought back by dismissing both thus forcing Singapore to recover from the double blow. Tim David, team’s most accomplished batsman, took the onus. His 24-ball 41 kept the momentum going.
Wicketkeeper Manjeet Singh came to the fore after the fall of David. While Singapore kept bleeding wickets at the other end, Singh played a similar knock to that of David. His 23-ball 41 along with minor contributions from the middle order helped the side post 181/9 in 18 overs. Ryan Burl was the pick of the bowlers for Zimbabwe, the leggie took 3/24.
The tantalising chase
Despite losing the opener Brian Chari early, Zimbabwe were cruising in the tall chase. Regis Chakabva was the initial aggressor. His quickfire 48 from 19 balls with six fours and three sixes saw Zimbabwe race to 63 before the powerplay ended. Captain Sean Williams continued the assault and his heroic knock of 66 from 35 balls almost closed the chase out for Zimbabwe. When Williams walked back, the visitors needed 19 runs from 14 balls.
Janak Prakash struck twice in the penultimate over to leave Zimbabwe 10 runs to get in the last over. Sidhant Singh conceded only four runs in the first four balls and Timycen Maruma got run out on the fifth. Tony Munyonga came out to bat with six runs needed off the final ball. He managed only a single as Singapore broke into wild celebrations.
The last ball and celebration from @SingaporeCric after they defeated @canadiancricket who fought until the very last moment. What a game ? pic.twitter.com/VW0X6n3f8X
— Jay Cricket Dude (@JayCricketDude) September 26, 2019
Brief scores
Singapore 181 for 9 in 18 overs (M Singh 41, T David 41, Rohan R 39, R Burl 3-24, R Ngarava 2-48) beat Zimbabwe 177 for 7 in 18 overs (S Williams 66, R Chakabva 48, T Mutombodzi 32, A Mahboob 2-20, J Prakash 2-34) by 4 runs.
