India is set to compete against Zimbabwe in a three-match T20I series, with all games scheduled to take place at the Harare Sports Club. The series is slated to begin on July 23.
This upcoming series marks a return to Harare for some Indian players, including Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who previously experienced success at the venue during the Under-19 World Cup. Sooryavanshi, who was 15 years old at the time, scored 175 runs off 80 balls against England in the final, contributing to India’s victory by 100 runs.
Sooryavanshi expressed that returning to Harare brings back special memories. He noted that the ground is very memorable for him, having played and won the Under-19 World Cup there just a few months prior. Representing India is a dream for many, and he described it as a special moment to return to a ground where history was created.
Despite a challenging recent outing with the senior Indian team, Sooryavanshi remains positive. His maiden appearance in senior colours saw him score 14, 13, and 15 runs in three T20Is against England, a series India lost 0-4. He acknowledged the ups and downs but views them as part of cricket and life, stating his commitment to the team.
Sooryavanshi believes his prior experience and knowledge of the conditions at Harare Sports Club will be beneficial during the upcoming series. He mentioned having a good idea about the pitches and conditions from his previous matches there and plans to apply that experience to perform well. He has played two matches at the ground, both of which went well, and aims to carry that form forward.
Zimbabwe’s Squad and Recent Form
Zimbabwe has announced its squad for the T20I series, led by captain Sikandar Raza. The team features several changes from their last series against Bangladesh. Among the new additions is wicket-keeper-batter Tafadzwa Tsiga, who has received his maiden T20I call-up. All-rounder Wessly Madhevere also returns to the squad.
The full Zimbabwe squad includes Sikandar Raza (c), Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl, Tanaka Chivanga, Ben Curran, Brad Evans, Wessly Madhevere, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wellington Masakadza, Blessing Muzarabani, Dion Myers, Richard Ngarava, Newman Nyamhuri, Milton Shumba, and Tafadzwa Tsiga.
Pacer Newman Nyamhuri, who is yet to make his T20I debut for Zimbabwe, is returning to the team after recovering from a niggle that kept him out of the Bangladesh series. Tanaka Chivanga, who had replaced Nyamhuri previously, has retained his spot in the squad. These three players will take the places of Clive Madande, Tinotenda Maposa, and Tashinga Musekiwa.
Zimbabwe enters the series following a 2-1 series loss against Bangladesh. Their last encounter with India was at this year’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, where India emerged victorious by 72 runs.
India’s Recent Performance and Series Schedule
India’s senior team has also faced a challenging period leading up to the Zimbabwe series. They lost their last two T20I series, first a 0-2 defeat against Ireland, followed by a 0-4 loss at the hands of England. These matches were played under new captain Shreyas Iyer.
Additionally, the Indian team, under Shubman Gill, recently lost an ODI series against England by a margin of 1-2. The visitors were last in action on Sunday, July 19, when England secured the ODI series win at Lord’s.
The upcoming three-match T20I series against Zimbabwe is scheduled as follows:
- First T20I: July 23, Harare Sports Club
- Second T20I: July 25, Harare Sports Club
- Third T20I: Harare Sports Club
All matches will be held at the Harare Sports Club.
Read Also
Source: icc-cricket.com
