Having endured consecutive series defeats to Ireland and England, India are set to kick off a new phase in their T20I campaign when they go against Zimbabwe in the opening game of the three-match series at Harare Sports Club on Thursday. This is an important opportunity for Shreyas Iyer as well to revive his stature as a competitive captain. India head into the series on the back of a series of distressing results in the recent T20I assignments, making this series a vital chance to rebuild momentum and find their mojo again.
Zimbabwe, meanwhile, are brimmed with optimism after clinching a series win against Bangladesh, which must have boosted their morale ahead of the series against India. For India, a lot will depend on captain Shreyas Iyer and vice-captain Tilak Varma, who have been unable to make hefty contributions. Still, India's batting unit boasts huge firepower, with Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, and Rinku Singh expected to play key roles.
The highly rated teenager Vaibhav Sooryavanshi would also hope to stamp his mark with his skilful batting. He made his India debut during the England series, but the teenage sensation was unable to adapt to challenging conditions in England, registering low outings. India also have a solid bowling attack with the availability of Ravi Bishnoi, Mayank Yadav, Yash Thakur and Ashok Sharma. Zimbabwe too have enough quality to challenge India. Captain Sikandar Raza remains the team's biggest match-winner. Brian Bennett and Blessing Muzarabani will also be crucial for Zimbabwe.
Head-to-head
Matches - 14
Ind won - 11
Zim won - 3
India possible XI: Abhishek Sharma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ishan Kishan (wk), Shreyas Iyer (c), Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh, Harsh Dubey/Ravi Bishnoi, Ashok Sharma, Yash Thakur, Prince Yadav
Zimbabwe possible XI: Brian Bennett, Wessly Madhevere, Tadiwanashe Marumani (wk), Dion Myers, Sikandar Raza (c), Ryan Burl, Milton Shumba, Brad Evans, Newman Nyamhuri, Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani