Zimbabwe and India are gearing up for a crucial match on February 26 in Chennai. Both teams come into the game needing a win, and the outcome will largely depend on their player selections. Here’s what to expect from both sides.
India is likely to keep its opening pair intact. Ishan Kishan will need to deliver a strong performance since Abhishek Sharma has been struggling. A good start from these openers could set up a significant victory.
The middle order is India’s key strength. They have successfully stepped up during the group stage when the openers didn’t perform well. Captain Suryakumar Yadav and Shivam Dube are in fine form and will aim to continue their success in the Super 8s.
India’s bowling lineup is less predictable. Varun Chakravarthy is in great form, and Jasprit Bumrah leads the pace bowling. Shivam Dube and Hardik Pandya will manage the middle overs. Chakravarthy’s role is especially crucial, as spinners perform well on the Chennai pitch, making his impact vital for the match’s outcome.
India Playing XI: Abhishek Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Ishan Kishan (wk), Hardik Pandya, Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Rinku Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakravarthy, and Arshdeep Singh.
On the other hand, Brian Bennett and Tadiwanashe Marumani have already showcased their skills in the T20 World Cup 2026. Despite not having the same recognition as Ishan Kishan or Abhishek Sharma, they played pivotal roles in Zimbabwe’s wins over Australia and Sri Lanka.
Sikandar Raza leads the team and has been vital to their achievements. In the match against Sri Lanka, several batters stood out. If one batsman settles in, others will aim to provide entertainment, especially under Chennai’s challenging conditions. Raza’s experience against top bowlers will be crucial as the team looks to advance.
Zimbabwe’s bowling attack is strong, with Blessing Muzarabani taking consistent wickets. Brad Evans and Graeme Cremer have also performed well when needed.
Zimbabwe Playing XI: Brian Bennett, Sikandar Raza (c), Tadiwanashe Marumani (w), Dion Myers, Tashinga Musekiwa, Ryan Burl, Tony Munyonga, Graeme Cremer, Brad Evans, Wellington Masakadza, Blessing Muzarabani.
