Ahead of the start of the three-match ODI series against Zimbabwe, India’s vice-captain Shikhar Dhawan has said that the hosts have been playing very good cricket in recent times and as such his team cannot afford to take them lightly. The first ODI between India and Zimbabwe will be played at Harare Sports Club on 18 August. After this, the next two ODIs will also be played on the same ground on August 20 and 22. The Indian team is visiting this African country for the first time since 2016. Looking at Zimbabwe’s scintillating performance against Bangladesh, Dhawan said that he would not take this team lightly.

Dhawan heaps praise on Zimbabwe’s senior batsman Sikandar Raza, who is running in finesse

Shikhar Dhawan said in the press conference on Tuesday, “They have won against Bangladesh. He is playing good cricket. It is good for us and we cannot take anything lightly. It’s about the process.” Dhawan heaped praise on Zimbabwe’s senior batsman Sikandar Raza, who is in fine form, saying the Indian bowlers will have to bowl cleverly against him.

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Shikhar Dhawan said, “He is a very good player. He has been playing for Zimbabwe for a long time. I am sure our bowlers will come out with a better plan against him.

Shikhar Dhawan was earlier given the responsibility of leading the team on this tour

Shikhar Dhawan was earlier given the responsibility of leading the team on this tour but after Rahul’s return, he was made the vice-captain. The opener said, “I really enjoy sharing my experience with the youngsters in the team. I first came here in 2014 (2013), when Duncan Fletcher was the Indian coach. If they (youth) come to me for any suggestion, I am (always) ready to answer them.

The 36-year-old batsman is very happy that captain Rahul will get a chance to spend time on the field ahead of the Asia Cup. “It is great news that KL (Rahul) is back and will also lead the team. He is one of the main players of this Indian team. It will be a good preparation for him before the Asia Cup starts. I am sure he will benefit greatly from this tour.

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All-rounder Washington Sundar ruled out of the tour due to injury

All-rounder Washington Sundar was ruled out of the tour due to injury. He injured his shoulder in the Royal London One Day Cup in England. This 22-year-old player from Chennai represented the Indian team for the last time in February 2021. The Indian vice-captain said, “It is sad that Washington is out. He is a very important player for the team. But it is part of the career. Injuries will continue. Hope he gets well soon. He will be missed as a spinner but there is an option in the team in Kuldeep Yadav and Deepak Hooda.