India delivered a commanding performance in Delhi to register their largest margin of victory in T20 World Cup history. After setting a formidable total of 209, the bowlers ensured Namibia never mounted a serious challenge.
Explosive Start Sets the Tone
India’s innings was shaped by an aggressive powerplay. Ishan Kishan attacked from the outset, racing to a rapid half-century and forcing Namibia’s seamers onto the defensive. His 61 off 24 balls provided early momentum and laid the foundation for a big total.
Sanju Samson, drafted into the XI after a late change, added early impetus before falling while attempting another boundary. India’s scoring rate remained high, but Namibia captain Gerhard Erasmus slowed the surge with a disciplined spell of off-spin. His four-wicket haul disrupted the middle order and briefly stemmed the flow of runs.
Hardik’s Impactful All-Round Show
Hardik Pandya restored India’s momentum with a forceful fifty, striking cleanly through the leg side and finishing with 52. A late flurry pushed India beyond 200, though a brief collapse in the final overs prevented an even larger total.
Despite the stutter at the end, the target of 210 always appeared steep.
Spinners Seal the Contest
Namibia began positively, reaching 67 for 1, but India’s spin attack quickly altered the course of the chase. Varun Chakravarthy’s variations proved decisive as he removed three batters in quick succession. Axar Patel provided control from the other end, while Jasprit Bumrah returned to the side and contributed with precision at the death.
Hardik capped off an influential evening by claiming two wickets late in the innings, ensuring Namibia were bowled out inside 19 overs.
India’s balanced display — explosive batting and disciplined bowling — underlined their title credentials as the tournament progresses.
Brief Score:
India 209/9 (20 overs)
Namibia 116 (18.2 overs)
India won by 93 runs
