ZIM vs IND First T20I: Zimbabwe vs India – check the starting lineup, Dream11 fantasy squads.
ZIM vs IND: T20I series 2024, Zimbabwe vs India: Here are the expected lineups, dream teams, and rosters for the first T20I match to be played between Zimbabwe and India in Harare today at 4:30 PM IST.
ZIM vs IND will be looking to the future as they kick off a five-match T20 international series at the Harare Sports Club this Saturday. The recent victory by India in the T20 World Cup in Barbados, according to retiring Indian coach Rahul Dravid, marked the end of “a journey of two years.” With the next T20 World Cup set for India and Sri Lanka in 2026, this series marks the beginning of a new chapter for both teams.
ZIM vs IND T20: Starting a New Journey with a Five-Match T20 Series
The cricket grounds of Harare Sports Club are buzzing with excitement as Zimbabwe vs India gets ready for a thrilling five-match T20 series. This contest marks the start of a fresh journey for both teams, with their eyes set on the 2026 T20 World Cup.
India’s young guns are all set to shine in this T20 face-off. Without the familiar faces of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, a new group of players, stars from the IPL, will take center stage. The team, led by the talented Shubman Gill, is eager to keep the winning spirit alive after India’s recent T20 World Cup victory.
We might see some new faces making their first appearance for India in this series. Players like Abhishek Sharma, who did well for Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL, could get their big break. Harshit Rana is another youngster who might step onto the international cricket field for the first time.
ZIM vs IND T20: The Changing Face of Indian Cricket
While fans will miss seeing Rohit and Kohli in action, it’s time for new heroes to emerge. Cricket, like life, is always changing. Even though Zimbabwe isn’t considered a top team, T20 cricket is known for its surprises. Any team can win on a good day.
Keep an eye out for Alexander Raza, from Zimbabwe. He plays for Punjab Kings in the IPL and could give the Indian team a tough time. From the third match, we’ll see more familiar names like Shivam Dubey, Sanju Samson, and Yashasvi Jaiswal joining the Indian side.
The Road to T20 World Cup 2026
This series is just the beginning of India’s journey towards the next T20 World Cup. With 34 matches planned in this format, there’s plenty of time for players to prove themselves and secure their spots in the team.
New Beginnings for India’s Youth Brigade
A fresh five-match T20 series between ZIM vs IND begins today. India’s young squad, missing veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, aims to build a winning streak under the leadership of Shubman Gill. Riding high on their recent T20 World Cup victory, India’s youth, featuring IPL stars, is ready to shine. ZIM vs IND
Debut Opportunities for Rising Stars
In the ZIM vs IND series, Punjab’s Abhishek Sharma and Harshit Rana may make their debuts following impressive performances in the IPL. These young talents, alongside others from the IPL, are eager to leave their mark.
Transition Without Rohit and Kohli
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have often missed bilateral T20 series in recent years. As they retire from international cricket, the T20 format will miss their presence. However, change is inevitable, and the young Indian team is ready to step up.
Zimbabwe’s Competitive Edge
While Zimbabwe may not be considered a strong team, the T20 format levels the playing field. Any team can pose a challenge on their day. Alexander Raza, a key player for the Punjab Kings in the IPL, could be a formidable opponent for India.
Key Players to Watch
Future stars like Shivam Dube, Sanju Samson, and Yashasvi Jaiswal will join in the third match. Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, and Kuldeep Yadav are expected to return to the T20 format soon.
Read also: IND vs SA Finale T20 World Cup: A massive win by India
Captain Shubman Gill’s Leadership
Captain Shubman Gill will lead from the front. The team must decide whether Abhishek Sharma or Ruturaj Gaikwad will open alongside him. Ruturaj, who has experience playing at number three for Chennai Super Kings, may also bat in this position.
Middle Order and Finishing Touches
Riyan Parag, who excelled at number four in the IPL, can continue in this role. T20 cricket’s offensive finisher Rinku Singh might bat at number five, while Jitesh Sharma or Dhruv Jurel could fill the number six spot.
Bowling Line-Up
Avesh Khan and Mukesh Kumar are set to lead the bowling attack. Mukesh is particularly dangerous in the death overs. There may be competition between Khaleel Ahmed and Harshit Rana for the final spot, both having performed well in the IPL 2024.
Player Squad Details of both teams, Zimbabwe vs India:
India Squad:
- Shubman Gill (Captain)
- Ruturaj Gaikwad
- Abhishek Sharma
- Rinku Singh
- Dhruv Jurel
- Riyan Parag
- Washington Sundar
- Ravi Bishnoi
- Avesh Khan
- Khaleel Ahmed
- Mukesh Kumar
- Tushar Deshpande
- Sai Sudharsan
- Jitesh Sharma (wk)
- Harshit Rana
Zimbabwe Squad:
- Sikandar Raza (Captain)
- Faraz Akram
- Brian Bennett
- Johnathan Campbell
- Tendai Chatara
- Luke Jongwe
- Innocent Kaia
- Clive Madande
- Wessly Madhevere
- Tadiwanashe Marumani
- Wellington Masakadza
- Brandon Mavuta
- Blessing Muzarabani
- Dion Myers
- Antum Naqvi
- Richard Ngarava
- Milton Shumba
Conclusion
The IND vs ZIM T20 series marks the start of a new era for both teams, with young players eager to prove themselves on the international stage. With a blend of experienced IPL stars and emerging talents, both sides are set for an exciting contest. As India prepares for the next T20 World Cup in 2026, these matches will be crucial in building a strong and competitive team.
