Sooryavanshi’s 81 off 56 balls came in the second half of the match, pushing India to 121‑6 and snatching the win from a Zimbabwe side that was 20‑0 with 18 overs left.
The opening partnership of 46 was a bit shaky, but the middle overs saw India’s bowlers tighten up, and Sooryavanshi’s runs kept the scoreboard ticking. He struck six fours and a single six, his six‑ball spell of 1‑2‑0‑0‑5‑1 the most economical of the innings.
Former captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth applauded the young batter, saying, “He showed the temperament to fight back when the pressure was highest.” Meanwhile, the captain, R Ashwin, added, “We’re proud of how the team responded; Sooryavanshi’s run‑rate changed the game.”
India now leads the five‑match series 3‑1, having won the first two games. The win also boosts the team’s confidence after a shaky start to the tour, and the selectors are keeping the opening slot locked for Sooryavanshi and Samson for the next fixture.
The next match pits India against the West Indies, who are chasing a 130‑run target. The pressure will be on the bowlers to contain the Caribbean attack.