Harare: Zimbabwe opener, Brendan Taylor, who was named Man of the Match for the second consecutive game against India, said after his side crushed India by seven wickets in the ongoing tri-series that he was never under any pressure while chasing India’s target of 195.

Zimbabwe got off to a slow start in their run chase but the two openers just exploded as Zimbabwe chased down the target with more than 11 overs to spare, which also gave them a bonus point and boosted their chances of reaching the finals of the tournament.

“I am very happy with this performance after our dismal effort against Sri Lanka. We were keeping it to under four runs an over, which is not too much. Batting with Hamilton I always feel relaxed, he’s a powerful hitter, and for some reason, I was ahead of him today which never really happens,” Taylor, who was Man of the Match for his 90-ball 74, said. “On a good flat wicket, I thought I played well and there was no real pressure.”

Taylor and Masakadza added 128 for the first wicket in 26.3 overs, all but ensuring a win for their team. When asked if there was a message from the dressing room to push on to secure a bonus point – the target had to be achieved under 40 overs to secure it – Taylor said, “The batsmen knew we were on a good wicket. It was essentially the start we got. The message came around the 25th over to take the Power-play. We got over the line comfortably.”

Elton Chigumbura, the Zimbabwe captain, meanwhile, singled out Andy Blignaut, who bowled 10 overs for just 22, for praise among the bowlers.

“A very good comeback after the last game. Our bowlers bowled well, especially Andy Blignaut. He was outstanding,” he said. “Our opening partnership gave us a good foundation. We just wanted to get a foundation, and it was then going to be easy to go for the bonus point.”

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