India‘s captain Shubman Gill won the toss and chose to bowl against Zimbabwe in the first T20I of a five-match series in Harare on Saturday. Ahead of his captaincy debut, Gill confirmed the day before the match that Abhishek Sharma would be making his debut and opening the innings with him.

Team India’s playing XI. pic.twitter.com/JqjrRuJdwN

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3 Indian Young Guns Make Debut In 1st T20I

Alongside Abhishek, IPL stars Riyan Parag and Dhruv Jurel were also given their T20I debuts. Shubman Gill is leading the team in the absence of captain Rohit Sharma, who retired from the format after the T20 World Cup, and vice-captain Hardik Pandya, who has been rested.

“We want to have a look at the target and have the runs on the board. World Cup has been long coming, winning after 11 years. Very satisfied, hope many more to come. Three debutants: Abhishek, Riyan, Jurel,” Gill said at the toss in Harare.

Zimbabwe skipper Sikander Raza said during the time of the toss, “I don’t mind batting first. The wicket looks good. Zimbabwe Cricket has trusted me with this transition phase. I look for young boys to come out and fight. It is humbling to lead this bunch. Sean has retired. It is a young side. Ervine will have a role in the future.”

Star Indian batter Virat Kohli also announced his T20I retirement after the World Cup final, indicating that it’s time for the new generation to step up.

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