The India vs Zimbabwe series is off to an exciting start, with the teams tied 1-1 after two games. India bounced back from the first game’s narrow defeat with a commanding 100-run victory in the 2nd T20I. The second-string Indian side saw almost all batters contributing runs, creating a delightful yet challenging situation for skipper Shubman Gill and coach VVS Laxman. Some members of India’s T20 World Cup team are set to return for the IND vs ZIM 3rd T20I.
Quandary for Indian Coach and Skipper The T20 World Cup winners had a break for the Zimbabwe series, but now Sanju Samson, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Shivam Dube are back for the 3rd T20I. Integrating them into the playing XI will be a challenge for Shubman Gill, especially after the fantastic performance by the batters in the 2nd T20I.
Centurion Abhishek Sharma to Make Way for Yashasvi Jaiswal? Yashasvi Jaiswal, who didn’t play in the T20 World Cup, might be included in the playing XI. This could mean replacing Abhishek Sharma, who scored a brilliant century in the IND vs ZIM 2nd T20I. Dropping him will be a tough decision.
Wicketkeeper Dilemma Sanju Samson, the wicketkeeper-batter, might replace Dhruv Jurel or play purely as a batter in the top order. However, Ruturaj Gaikwad, who scored an unbeaten 77 at one-down, is unlikely to be dropped after his stellar performance.
Fight for Finishers’ Role Heats Up Shivam Dube, who had a tough T20 World Cup but played a crucial role in the final, is vying for the finisher’s spot. He excelled in this role for his franchise CSK but has struggled to maintain that form in national colors. Rinku Singh, a traveling substitute in the T20 WC, impressed with a quickfire 48 off 22 balls in the 2nd T20I, showcasing his potential as a finisher.
Shubman Gill and VVS Laxman face several tough calls for the 3rd T20I. This selection dilemma highlights the immense talent available to the Indian cricket team.
