Gill To Drop Khaleel? IND's Probable Playing XI For 2nd T20I vs Zimbabwe

India faced a shocking 13-run defeat vs Zimbabwe in 1st T20I (x.com)India faced a shocking 13-run defeat vs Zimbabwe in 1st T20I (x.com)

T20 World Champions India were humbled in the first T20I against Zimbabwe, as the young squad struggled to make a mark and lost the match by 13 runs.

Debutants Abhishek Sharma, Riyan Parag, and Dhruv Jurel had a rough initiation, failing to deliver with the bat.

India, known for their formidable strength, was bowled out for a paltry 102 runs in 19.5 overs, chasing a modest target of 116. Eight single-digit scores marred their chase, highlighting the need for a stronger batting display.


India’s young squad will aim to bounce back against Zimbabwe

Although India’s young guns had a baptism by fire in the first T20I, but with the proverbial backs against the wall, the team will be looking to bounce back in the second match.

As the team prepares for the second T20I, let's take a look at India's probable playing XI vs Zimbabwe.

Despite a dismal debut where he was dismissed for a four-ball duck, Abhishek Sharma is expected to open once again.

His partner at the top will be the captain, Shubman Gill, who showed some character with a fighting 31 in the first match. However, he couldn't see the team through and will be eager to lead from the front in the next game.

The middle order had a tough outing, but the team management seems set to give these players another chance.

Seasoned campaigner, Ruturaj Gaikwad managed just 7 runs, while debutant Riyan Parag scored 2. Rinku Singh fell for a duck, and wicketkeeper-batsman Dhruv Jurel could only muster 6 runs. The team will be looking for a significant improvement from this quartet to stabilize the innings and build partnerships.

One of the few bright spots in the first T20I, Washington Sundar played a crucial role with both bat and ball. Scoring 27 runs and picking up 2 wickets, Sundar's all-round abilities were on full display. His performance will be key in providing balance to the side.

Ravi Bishnoi was the star with the ball, claiming a career-best 4 wickets for 13 runs in his four overs. Avesh Khan and Mukesh Sharma also contributed with one wicket each.

However, Khaleel Ahmed had an off day, going wicketless and conceding 28 runs in his three overs.

While there might be a temptation to bring in Tushar Deshpande, the management might stick with Khaleel, offering him another opportunity to redeem himself.


India’s Probable XI for 2nd T20I vs Zimbabwe

Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill (c), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Riyan Parag, Rinku Singh, Dhruv Jurel (wk), Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Mukesh Kumar, Khaleel Ahmed