Harmanpreet Kaur produced a sensational unbeaten 91 off just 41 balls as India crushed Zimbabwe by 92 runs in the third and final women’s T20I in Raipur on Tuesday, completing a dominant 3-0 series whitewash.
The former India captain struck 10 boundaries and five sixes in a powerful batting display, while opener Shafali Verma continued her impressive form with a blistering 69 off 37 deliveries.
India posted a massive 216-run total before restricting Zimbabwe to 124 for seven, comfortably securing another victory.
After winning the toss, India elected to bat first for the first time in the series. Captain Smriti Mandhana moved herself down the batting order, allowing Anushka Sharma to open alongside Shafali.
The opening pair gave India a flying start, adding 54 runs in just 32 balls. Shafali maintained the attacking momentum, bringing up her second consecutive half-century.
However, it was Harmanpreet who stole the spotlight with a remarkable innings.
Having endured a difficult period following her removal from the captaincy across formats, the experienced batter delivered a timely reminder of her destructive batting ability.
Harmanpreet initially took time to settle but soon unleashed a series of powerful strokes against Zimbabwe’s bowling attack.
India accumulated 62 runs in the final five overs despite losing four wickets, setting the visitors a daunting target of 217.
Speaking during the innings break, an emotional Harmanpreet reflected on her performance.
“Feels great that I got some time in the middle. Just wanted to enjoy myself and bat as long as possible,” she said before breaking down during the interview.
Zimbabwe showed resistance during the chase but struggled to keep pace with the required scoring rate.
Sharne Mayers led the visitors’ response with an impressive 60 off 49 deliveries, while Beloved Biza contributed a determined 44 from 50 balls.
Despite their efforts, Zimbabwe finished on 124 for seven, their highest total of the three-match T20I series.
India also made a change to their bowling attack, resting Sree Charani and handing Prema Rawat an opportunity.
Shafali’s consistent performances throughout the series earned her the Player of the Series award.
Although India completed a convincing sweep, their fielding errors remained an area of concern ahead of tougher international assignments.
The two teams will now travel to Vadodara for a three-match ODI series beginning October 23.
India will also look to sharpen their preparations for the upcoming South Africa tour and the inaugural Women’s Champions Trophy on home soil.
