India finds itself in a favorable yet tricky position as it prepares for the decisive third T20 International against Zimbabwe on Wednesday. With the series tied at 1-1, the arrival of World Cup-winning squad members Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson, and Shivam Dube has significantly bolstered the team’s lineup, but also presented a selection conundrum.
At the top of the order, India has to choose between the flamboyant Yashasvi Jaiswal and the aggressive Abhishek Sharma. Both left-handed openers bring unique strengths to the table, making the decision challenging for skipper Shubman Gill and the team management. Jaiswal’s effortless stroke play and Sharma’s explosive hitting make them both viable options to set the tone for India’s innings.
Abhishek Sharma made a strong case for himself with a blistering 46-ball century in only his second game, showing his potential as a reliable opener. However, the inclusion of Jaiswal, who played a pivotal role in India’s recent World Cup triumph, complicates the selection process.
The Indian team is likely to see some adjustments in the playing XI. Jaiswal is expected to replace B Sai Sudharsan, who was picked for the first two games. Sanju Samson is set to come in for Dhruv Jurel, who had a commendable performance behind the stumps. Samson, typically a No. 3 batsman for Rajasthan Royals, might slot in at No. 5, with Ruturaj Gaikwad moving down to No. 4.
Shivam Dube, the only player from the T20 World Cup playing XI, is poised to replace Riyan Parag. Dube’s powerful batting makes him a significant threat, especially against Zimbabwe’s spinners in the latter stages of the innings.
Zimbabwe’s batting lineup has struggled in the series, managing only 115 runs in the first match and 134 in the second while chasing a daunting 235. The Harare Sports Club pitch, offering extra bounce, has been particularly challenging for Zimbabwe’s batters against India’s spinners.
Ravi Bishnoi (6/24 from 8 overs) and Washington Sundar (3/39 in 8 overs) have been instrumental, often proving unplayable. Bishnoi’s clever variations and Sundar’s control have stifled Zimbabwe’s batting efforts, putting the home side on the back foot.
Zimbabwe’s captain, Sikandar Raza, a key player, has been kept quiet, leaving the rest of the batting order unable to counter India’s formidable bowling attack.
India’s 13-run defeat in the series opener served as a timely reminder of the unpredictability of T20 cricket. The young visiting side responded emphatically in the second match, capitalizing on the advantage of batting first and securing a dominant 100-run victory.
For captain Shubman Gill, who has had a couple of quiet games, the third T20I presents an opportunity to return to form. A significant score from Gill could spell trouble for Zimbabwe’s bowlers, who have struggled with a lack of express pace.
The upcoming match could potentially be one-sided given India’s strengthened lineup and Zimbabwe’s batting frailties. However, the nature of T20 cricket ensures that surprises are always possible.
