Zimbabwe vs India: On Virat Kohli’s remark ‘It’s time for the youth to take control’, Shubman Gill’s viral response

Indian captain Shubman Gill won the toss and opted to bowl against Zimbabwe in the first T20I of a five-match series in Harare on Saturday. Before his debut as captain, Gill had confirmed on the eve of the match that Abhishek Sharma would make his debut and open the innings with him. Apart from Abhishek, IPL stars Riyan Parag and Dhruv Jurel also made their debut for the Indian team. Gill leads the team in the absence of captain Rohit Sharma, who retired from the format after the T20 World Cup, while vice-captain Hardik Pandya is rested.

Star India batsman Virat Kohli also announced his retirement from T20I after the final, suggesting it is time for the new generation to take over.

When asked if there is any pressure on him after Kohli’s comment, Gill said at the toss: “Don’t feel pressure, you have expectations, but from yourself, not from outside.”

“We want to take a look at the target and have racing in mind. The World Cup has been a long time coming, winning after 11 years. Very pleased, hope many more to come. Three debutants: Abhishek, Riyan, Jurel,” Gill said at the draw in Harare.

Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza said during the toss: “I don’t mind batting first. The wicket looks good. Zimbabwe cricket has trusted me in this transitional phase. I look for boys to come out and fight. It’s humbling to lead this group. Sean retired. It’s a young team that will have a role in the future.

India (Playing XI): Shubman Gill (c), Abhishek Sharma, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Riyan Parag, Rinku Singh, Dhruv Jurel (w), Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Mukesh Kumar, Khaleel Ahmed

Zimbabwe (Playing XI): Tadiwanashe Marumani, Innocent Kaia, Brian Bennett, Sikandar Raza(c), Dion Myers, Johnathan Campbell, Clive Madande(w), Wessly Madhevere, Luke Jongwe, Blessing Muzarabani, Tendai Chatara.

(With ANI inputs)