Harare, July 13 (UNI) In the fourth T20I match of the series, India won the toss and chose to field first against Zimbabwe here on Saturday.
With the series currently standing at 2-1 in favor of India, the match offers them the chance to secure a series victory, while Zimbabwe aim to level the series and keep their hopes alive.
After losing a low-scoring opening match, India bounced back with two commanding victories, showcasing their depth and resilience. The Indian team made one change, especially in their bowling lineup, to optimise their performance.
On the other hand, Zimbabwe, led by Sikandar Raza, is determined to improve their game in all departments. The young Zimbabwean squad is eager to put on a strong show and capitalise on their home advantage.
Raza expressed his intention to bat first: "We wanted to bat first. The wicket tends to get slower and slower. We've got a vision for 2026, and the only way to get better is quality game time. Hopefully, our top three can click. Our idea is for all three departments to perform. The boys are hungry. Wellington Masakadza misses out. Faraz Akram comes in."
Shubman Gill, leading India, explained his decision to bowl first: "We'll bowl first. It looks like a fresh wicket. Hopefully, there's going to be something in it for the fast bowlers. The death bowling is where we can improve. We got a little complacent in the previous match. Tushar Deshpande makes his debut in place of Avesh Khan."
The pitch in Harare has been known to offer something for the bowlers, especially early on, which could play into India's strategy. Zimbabwe will need a strong start from their top order to set a challenging target. Both teams are geared up for what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
Teams
Zimbabwe (Playing XI): Wessly Madhevere, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Brian Bennett, Dion Myers, Sikandar Raza (c), Johnathan Campbell, Faraz Akram, Clive Madande (w), Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani, Tendai Chatara.
India (Playing XI): Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill (c), Abhishek Sharma, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sanju Samson (w), Rinku Singh, Shivam Dube, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Tushar Deshpande, Khaleel Ahmed.
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