Iyer hints at big change in India's playing XI for 3rd T20I against Zimbabwe

Following India's series-clinching victory to take an unassailable 2-0 lead against Zimbabwe, captain Shreyas Iyer indicated that the squad will likely shuffle its playing XI for the third and final T20I. Speaking at the post-match presentation, Iyer confirmed that an unfortunate injury during the game has forced the management's hand, signaling that fresh faces will likely feature in Sunday's clash.

Prince Yadav likely to miss 3rd T20I vs Zimbabwe

The player in question is right-arm pacer Prince Yadav, who suffered an injury scare mid-game. After making an immediate impact by picking up two quick top-order wickets, Yadav pulled up abruptly during the run-up of his second over, clutching his hamstring before hobbling off the field. His departure adds to a growing list of fitness concerns for India over the past couple of months.

In a twist of irony, Yadav himself had only entered the squad as an injury replacement for Harshit Rana, who was sidelined during the previous T20I series against England. Depending on the severity of the hamstring strain, it remains to be seen whether Yadav can make a swift recovery or if he will join Rana for rehabilitation at the Centre of Excellence.

In a bizarre twist of fate, Prince Yadav’s fitness setback comes shortly after he was brought into the squad to replace Harshit Rana, who was sidelined during the England T20I series. Whether the young pacer can recover quickly or will join Rana at the Centre of Excellence for rehabilitation remains to be seen.