(Credit BCCI)
With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli absent, a fresh Indian T20 squad heads to Harare for a series against Zimbabwe. As India celebrates their T20 World Cup victory, Shubman Gill and IPL standouts get a chance to shine.
Debuts are expected for talents like Abhishek Sharma and Riyan Parag, promising players perfectly suited for T20 cricket.
Rohit and Kohli’s absence leaves big shoes to fill, their experience and skills unmatched. Yet, as nature demands, new talents must step up.
While Zimbabwe may not be the toughest opponent, T20 cricket offers close contests. Led by Sikandar Raza, the hosts pose challenges on lively Harare pitches.
Strong performances here could secure futures for these youngsters when the champions return.
Shivam Dube, Sanju Samson, and Yashasvi Jaiswal will join the squad from the third match onwards, giving some of the youngsters only a limited opportunity to showcase their skills.
Looking ahead, Hardik Pandya, likely deputy Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, and Kuldeep Yadav will return to bolster the T20 squad, leaving few spots in the playing eleven. Leading up to the 2026 T20 World Cup in India, the national team is scheduled to play 34 matches in the shortest format.
Expected to open, captain Shubman Gill’s selection strategy will determine whether Abhishek Sharma or seasoned campaigner Ruturaj Gaikwad will make their maiden appearances. Should Abhishek open, Gaikwad might slot in at No.3 or swap places with the left-handed Punjab batsman. Riyan Parag, likely to debut, is slated for No. 4, a role he has excelled in for the Royals.
Rinku Singh, identified as the team’s designated finisher, is set to bat at No. 5 in this rejuvenated lineup, with either Jitesh Sharma or Dhruv Jurel taking on wicketkeeping duties at No. 6.
Given the selection pattern, Jurel, who impressed in his Test debut against England, will likely play the initial two games before Sanju Samson joins the squad.
In the bowling department, Avesh Khan and Khaleel Ahmed, standby players during the T20 World Cup, are assured of spots. Mukesh Kumar, known for his reliable death bowling, might edge out Harshit Rana, who offers more with the bat.
Washington Sundar will maintain his place until Shivam Dube arrives, while leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi is anticipated to feature in all matches, bringing his spin prowess to the forefront.
