Vaibhav Sooryavanshi likely to edge Prabhsimran Singh in India’s opening XI for first Zimbabwe T20I

Young batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is likely to get another opportunity to open the innings for India in the first T20I against Zimbabwe despite enduring a disappointing tour of England, where he managed three successive low scores.

India, led by Shreyas Iyer, head into the series looking to end a seven-match losing streak in T20Is, with the team management expected to back youth for the Zimbabwe tour.

While Abhishek Sharma is almost certain to open the batting, the second opener’s slot is expected to be decided between Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Prabhsimran Singh.

Prabhsimran, who has consistently impressed in domestic cricket and the IPL, has long been in contention for a national call-up. His familiarity with captain Shreyas Iyer from Punjab Kings could strengthen his case, but current indications suggest Sooryavanshi remains the frontrunner.

The batting order is expected to feature Ishan Kishan at No. 3, followed by captain Shreyas Iyer at No. 4.

Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube and Rinku Singh are likely to occupy the middle-order positions, with the trio expected to provide stability and finishing power.

India are also expected to make a choice between Harsh Dubey and Ravi Bishnoi for the specialist spinner’s role, with Harsh Dubey currently tipped to get the nod.

The pace attack is likely to comprise Ashok Sharma, Yash Thakur and Prince Yadav, although Mayank Yadav remains an option for the team management.

India’s predicted playing XI

Abhishek Sharma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ishan Kishan (wk), Shreyas Iyer (c), Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh, Harsh Dubey, Ashok Sharma, Yash Thakur, Prince Yadav