An inspired all-round display from underdog Zimbabwe stunned India in the first T20I to lead the five-match series 1-0. After being restricted to 115/9 in 20 overs, Zimbabwe routed India for 102 in 19.5 overs to seal a 13-run victory in the first match. Skipper Sikandar Raza and Tendai Chatara shared six wickets between them to paralyse India’s chase. Shubman Gill (31) and Washington Sundar (27), being the top-scorer, couldn’t help India get over the line.

As both teams gear up for the second T20I, to be held on Sunday at Harare Sports Club, Harare, the pressure is going to be on traditionally stronger India, who entered the series with a young-looking squad. Zimbabwe, meanwhile, would aim to maintain their momentum against the under-pressure India. Zimbabwe’s win was a result of a combined effort from their batsmen and bowlers, who executed their plans to perfection. Key players like Sikandar Raza, Brian Bennett, Tendai Chatara and Clive Madande played pivotal roles in the first game and would be key in the second T20I. 

India, on the other hand, will be eager to bounce back from the unexpected defeat. Known to fight till the last moment, India will look to rectify their mistakes and come out with a renewed strategy in the second T20I. Players like Abhishek Sharma, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Riyan Parag and Rinku Singh, who are known for their explosive batting, will be crucial in setting a strong foundation for the team.

Zim probable XI: Wessly Madhevere, Innocent Kaia, Brian Bennett , Sikandar Raza (c), Dion Myers, Johnathan Campbell, Clive Madande (wk), Wellington Masakadza, Luke Jongwe, Blessing Muzarabani, Tendai Chatara

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