India’s tour of Zimbabwe in 2024 presents an exciting opportunity for several young cricketers to make their international debut.
With a totally youn squad selected for the five-match T20I series, starting July 6, there are high expectations that some of the emerging talents will get their chance to shine on the big stage.
The young Indian team has travelled for IND vs ZIM T20I series with young captain Shubhman Gill and under the coaching guidance of VVS Laxman.
Here are three players who could potentially make their T20I debut for India against Zimbabwe:
1. Abhishek Sharma
Abhishek Sharma has been in impressive form in the recent IPL 2024. Playing for Sunrisers Hyderabad, he amassed 484 runs at a remarkable strike rate of 204.22. He slammed three half-centuries in IPL 2024. His explosive batting and handy left-arm spin bowling make him a valuable asset to the team.
With Yashasvi Jaiswal missing the first two T20Is due to travel delays, Abhishek Sharma could be given the opportunity to open the innings alongside captain Shubman Gill. His chemistry with Gill, having played together since childhood, could be a factor in their decision to pair them at the top of the order.
2. Riyan Parag
Riyan Parag has been rewarded for his impressive performances in the IPL 2024. He scored 573 runs at an average of 52.09, including four half-centuries, and helped his team qualify for the playoffs.
His ability to play innovative shots and contribute with his off-spin bowling makes him a versatile option in the middle order.
With senior players like Suryakumar Yadav and Rishabh Pant rested for the Zimbabwe series, Parag’s chances of making his T20I debut are quite high. His experience of playing under Sanju Samson’s captaincy in the IPL could also work in his favor.
3. Dhruv Jurel
Dhruv Jurel earned his maiden T20I call-up following his impressive Test debut series against England earlier this year.
He has been named as one of the wicket-keepers in the squad, alongside Jitesh Sharma, who has been added as a replacement for the first two matches.
Jurel’s solid glovework and ability to stabilize the innings in the middle overs make him a valuable asset to the team.
With the series against Zimbabwe being a good opportunity to test the bench strength, Jurel could be given a chance to showcase his skills at the international level.
