In a spectacular display of power hitting, Shimron Hetmyer delivered a career-defining performance that propelled the West Indies to a monumental 107-run victory against Zimbabwe during their Super Eights clash in the T20 World Cup. The destructive left-hander bludgeoned an electrifying 85 runs from a mere 34 deliveries, a personal best in T20 internationals, to set a formidable target that proved insurmountable for the African side.
The foundation for the Caribbean triumph was laid early as Hetmyer registered the fastest fifty ever by a West Indian in T20 World Cup history, reaching the milestone in just 19 balls. His explosive innings, featuring seven boundaries and seven massive sixes, formed the core of the team’s colossal total of 254-6—the second-highest ever recorded in the tournament’s history, narrowly trailing Sri Lanka’s 260-6 against Kenya in 2007.
Zimbabwe’s fielding woes significantly contributed to their downfall, with Tashinga Musekiwa dropping Hetmyer on two critical occasions at long-on. Captain Rovman Powell provided substantial support with a well-crafted 59 from 35 balls, combining with Hetmyer in a devastating 122-run partnership for the third wicket that dismantled Zimbabwe’s bowling attack. Sherfane Rutherford’s late cameo of 31 not out from 13 deliveries further accelerated the scoring in the final overs.
Facing a record chase of 255, Zimbabwe’s innings never gained momentum as left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie orchestrated a spectacular collapse with his four-wicket haul (4-28). The African team crumbled to 20-3 within the first three overs, with Akeal Hosein claiming two wickets in a maiden over. Despite brief resistance from Dion Myers (28) and a defiant 43 from Brad Evans, Zimbabwe were eventually bowled out for 147 in 18.3 overs.
The comprehensive victory elevated West Indies to the top of Group One based on superior net run rate ahead of South Africa, setting up a crucial encounter between the two teams. Zimbabwe will seek redemption against defending champions India in their next fixture as they attempt to keep their semifinal hopes alive in the tournament.