India will play a three-match ODI series against Zimbabwe starting on August 18. They have rested most of the first-choice players so that they can remain fresh for the upcoming Asia Cup. On the other hand, the hosts will be entering with a full-strength side although their cricketing experience is far lesser than the Men In Blue. Also, not to forget that they don’t play against bigger oppositions to improve their skills.
Meanwhile, here, we will discuss the probable playing XI of the visitors. As the first-choice players aren’t available, the new players will have the chance to showcase their skills. Some players are making a comeback after a long injury layoff which is why they would be eager to do well. So, without further ado, let’s have a look at the probable playing XI of the team.
Probable playing XI
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Opening batters
Stand-in skipper KL Rahul and Shikhar Dhawan will be opening the innings. In the presence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma, Rahul plays in the middle order. However, in the former’s absence, the Bangalore player will open the innings.
On the other hand, Dhawan is an extremely experienced player in the ODI format. Talking about his record in the Southern African nation, he played four games and has 209 runs at an average of 52.25 to his name.
2. Middle-order batters
Rahul Tripathi, Sanju Samson, and Deepak Hooda will be the top contenders for the middle-order spots. Also, not to forget, Samson can keep wickets which is also another reason for his assured place in the playing XI. On the other hand, Tripathi didn’t get a game in the Ireland tour.
The team management will be looking to Test him against a very inexperienced side. Also, Hooda, who has been in a good form in T20Is will get an opportunity to do well in the ODIs. Also, Shubman Gill can be an option for number three as he hit two fifties against the West Indies.
3. All-rounders
With Washington Sundar ruled out and replaced by Shahbaz Ahmed, the latter might get his maiden ODI cap on this tour. Another all-rounder could be Shardul Thakur, who had a great series against South Africa early this year.
Both players can bat and bowl well according to the team’s requirements. Also, they would provide the fifth and sixth bowling options if someone out of the four main bowlers has a bad day.
4. Bowlers
Deepak Chahar, Axar Patel, Mohammed Siraj, and Prasidh Krishna could be the main bowling options. Notably, these are the winter times in the Southern parts of Africa which is why the team might prefer more pacers in the team.
Also, in the 2015 and 2016 India tours of Zimbabwe, it was observed that the wickets were a little greener which might be the case here. It will be interesting to see which kind of wickets will be offered to both teams in the series.
