Get ready for fireworks! Our experts analyze India’s potential playing XI for the 3rd T20I against Zimbabwe. Will Sanju Samson replace Jurel and Jaiswal? All the team selection insights you need!
The dust has settled on India’s convincing victories in the first two T20Is against Zimbabwe, but the focus now shifts to the series finale. With a clean sweep in sight, questions arise around India’s team selection for the 3rd T20I. Here at Gemini News, we delve into the potential changes coach Rahul Dravid might make, with a particular spotlight on the much-anticipated inclusion of Sanju Samson.
A Look Back at the First Two T20Is:
India dominated the opening encounters, showcasing a blend of experience and youthful exuberance. Openers Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma provided solid starts, while the middle order, anchored by the in-form Ruturaj Gaikwad, displayed solidity. The bowling attack, spearheaded by the wily Ravi Bishnoi and the fiery Avesh Khan, proved too strong for the Zimbabwean batsmen.
The Sanju Samson Conundrum:
One of the biggest talking points surrounding the 3rd T20I is the potential inclusion of Sanju Samson. The explosive wicketkeeper-batsman, despite his stellar form in domestic cricket, hasn’t found a consistent place in the Indian T20I setup. With Rishabh Pant, the first-choice wicketkeeper, rested for the Zimbabwe series, this presents a golden opportunity for Samson to stake his claim.
Why Samson Deserves a Chance:
- Explosive Batting: Samson boasts an exceptional T20 strike rate, known for his six-hitting prowess and ability to accelerate the innings. Given the dominance of spin bowling in Zimbabwean conditions, his clean hitting against spinners could be a valuable asset.
- Experience and Calm Head: With over 100 IPL matches under his belt, Samson brings valuable experience to the middle order. His composure in high-pressure situations can be crucial in the T20 format.
- Adaptability: Samson has a proven track record of performing well across various batting positions. His flexibility allows the team management to experiment with the batting order based on the situation.
Potential Departures: Dhruv Jurel and Yashasvi Jaiswal:
Both Dhruv Jurel and Yashasvi Jaiswal received their maiden T20I caps in the first two matches. While Jurel impressed with his wicketkeeping skills behind the stumps, he didn’t get a chance to bat. Jaiswal, on the other hand, remained an unused substitute. Given the presence of established openers and the potential inclusion of Samson, both youngsters might be dropped to make way for a more experienced middle order.
Predicted India Playing XI for 3rd T20I:
- Shubman Gill (c)
- Abhishek Sharma
- Ruturaj Gaikwad
- Sanju Samson (wk)
- Riyan Parag / Shivam Dube
- Washington Sundar
- Ravindra Jadeja / Axar Patel
- Ravi Bishnoi
- Avesh Khan
- Mukesh Kumar
- Prasidh Krishna / Mohammed Siraj
Factors to Consider:
- Pitch and Conditions: The pitch at the venue for the 3rd T20I could influence team selection. If it’s a batting-friendly surface, India might opt for an extra batsman.
- Workload Management: With a busy cricketing calendar ahead, the team management might consider resting some senior players like Ravindra Jadeja or Mohammed Siraj for the final match.
- Testing the Bench Strength: India might use the 3rd T20I as an opportunity to give further opportunities to players like Riyan Parag, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, or Prasidh Krishna.
Conclusion:
The 3rd T20I promises to be an exciting encounter, with India looking to seal a clean sweep and Sanju Samson potentially making his long-awaited return to the T20I setup. While the final playing XI remains to be confirmed, one thing is certain: the Indian team is brimming with talent and will be keen to end the series on a high note.
Reference: https://www.news18.com/cricket/sanju-samson-to-replace-jurel-jaiswal-in-for-indias-likely-playing-xi-for-3rd-t20i-against-zimbabwe-8959299.html
