(AP Photo)
India’s T20I squad for the five-game series against Zimbabwe is expected to be finalized by the Ajit Agarkar-led senior selection committee this Sunday. The official squad announcement is anticipated on the same day, as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has already gathered passports from several players slated for the Zimbabwe tour.
All matches will take place in Harare, showcasing a rejuvenated Indian team, likely resting regular players due to their extensive schedules. The seam bowling unit will notably include several left-armers, marking a departure from the norm. If Arshdeep Singh isn’t rested, the squad might even boast three left-arm quicks.
Khaleel Ahmed, already a reserve with the 2024 T20 World Cup squad, is poised to secure a spot for the Zimbabwe tour. Another strong contender is Yash Dayal, the Uttar Pradesh seamer, who caught the attention of decision-makers during the 2024 Indian Premier League. Discussions also revolve around Mukesh Kumar, with selectors weighing the squad’s balance before making the final call.
Avesh Khan is a certainty, having traveled as a reserve with the World Cup squad but was released post the US leg in Florida. Similarly, Shubman Gill, released after the India vs Canada fixture due to rain, is expected to join the squad directly in Zimbabwe.
With India’s busy T20 schedule in the next year, featuring up to 20 matches, there’s a likelihood of resting both Hardik Pandya and Suryakumar Yadav ahead of the Sri Lanka tour starting in July. Consequently, a surprise captaincy appointment could be on the cards for the five T20Is against Zimbabwe.
The India vs Zimbabwe T20I series schedule is as follows:
– July 6: 1st T20I in Harare
– July 7: 2nd T20I in Harare
– July 10: 3rd T20I in Harare
– July 13: 4th T20I in Harare
– July 14: 5th T20I in Harare
