In an exciting development for Indian cricket, the selection committee has announced Sai Sudharsan, Jitesh Sharma, and Harshit Rana as replacements for Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, and Yashasvi Jaiswal for the first two T20Is in the upcoming series against Zimbabwe. This marks a maiden call-up for Delhi pacer Harshit Rana, who had an outstanding IPL season with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).
Harshit Rana’s IPL Success
Harshit Rana’s inclusion comes on the back of a stellar performance in the IPL 2024, where he played a vital role in KKR’s triumphant campaign. The 23-year-old speedster claimed 19 wickets in 13 matches, the most by any uncapped Indian player this season. His impressive form with the ball has earned him this well-deserved opportunity to don the national colors.
Changes in the Squad
Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, and Yashasvi Jaiswal, who were part of India’s ICC T20 World Cup-winning team, will first return to India before departing for Harare. They were initially slated to join the Zimbabwe-bound squad for the five-match T20I series starting on July 6.
Young Talents Get Their Chance
The series also sees the inclusion of several young IPL standouts, such as Abhishek Sharma, Dhruv Jurel, Riyan Parag, and Tushar Deshpande, who have been called up to the senior national squad for the first time. These players have shown remarkable performances in the IPL and will be keen to make their mark on the international stage.
Additionally, all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, initially selected for the series, had to withdraw due to injury. Shivam Dube has been named as his replacement.
VVS Laxman Takes Over as Interim Coach
Following Rahul Dravid’s departure as head coach, VVS Laxman will serve as the interim replacement, accompanying the team on their trip to Zimbabwe. Laxman’s vast experience and strategic acumen are expected to be invaluable for the young squad.
Series Details
The entire series will take place at the Harare Sports Club in Harare. The Indian squad for the first and second T20I against Zimbabwe is as follows:
- Shubman Gill (Captain)
- Ruturaj Gaikwad
- Abhishek Sharma
- Rinku Singh
- Dhruv Jurel (WK)
- Riyan Parag
- Washington Sundar
- Ravi Bishnoi
- Avesh Khan
- Khaleel Ahmed
- Mukesh Kumar
- Tushar Deshpande
- Sai Sudharsan
- Jitesh Sharma
- Harshit Rana
This series against Zimbabwe presents an excellent opportunity for young talents to showcase their skills on the international stage. With a mix of experienced players and fresh faces, the Indian team looks well-balanced and ready to take on the challenges ahead. Fans will be eagerly watching to see how these young players perform and contribute to India’s success in the series.