India named pacer Yash Thakur in the playing XI for the second T20 International against Zimbabwe, handing him his debut in the format. The match began with Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza winning the toss and opting to field first.
The team news was one of the main talking points before the start, with Thakur coming into the Indian side for this game. His inclusion gives India a fresh pace option as the visitors look to build on their advantage in the series.
India entered the contest with a 1-0 lead in the three-match battle after winning the previous match. That put added pressure on Zimbabwe, who needed a response at home after falling behind.
With Zimbabwe choosing to chase, the focus shifted to how India’s batting unit would set up the innings and whether the new-look bowling combination, including debutant Yash Thakur, could make an impact later in the game. The playing XIs for both sides were confirmed ahead of the start.