Zimbabwe is hoping to unsettle India with a diverse bowling attack in the Super Eight stage of the tournament. After a heavy defeat against West Indies in their opening match, where they fell short chasing 254 runs, all-rounder Ryan Burl sees a glimmer of hope in the team’s bowling strength. He believes that the variety in Zimbabwe’s attack could give them an edge against the Indian lineup.
The Black Soil pitch in Chennai will host Zimbabwe’s second Super Eight encounter against India on Thursday. Zimbabwe has recalled Richard Ngarava for this crucial clash, adding to the pace arsenal alongside the towering Blessing Muzarabani. With their tall pacers, Zimbabwe enjoys a natural advantage in bounce and pace.
Zimbabwe’s spin department is equally versatile. Leg-spinner Graeme Cremer pairs with captain Sikandar Raza, who is adept at off-spin and mystery deliveries, while Wellington Masakadza offers left-arm finger spin. Burl emphasises the importance of these options, saying:
“We have plenty of options. Right- and left-arm pacers, leg-spin, off-spin, left-arm spin — it will all come down to match-ups and combinations.”
India’s batting lineup, particularly the left-handed openers Shubman Gill and Ishan Kishan, could influence Raza’s utilisation with the new ball. Despite sustaining a finger injury against the West Indies, Raza has looked fully fit in practice, bowling and batting comfortably.
Zimbabwe’s main strike weapon remains Blessing Muzarabani. Standing at 6 feet 9 inches, he consistently troubles batsmen with his high release point and extra bounce. He has claimed 11 wickets so far this season, second only to Shardul Thakur among bowlers in similar conditions.
Burl expressed confidence in Muzarabani’s impact:
“He missed a few games due to injury, but the way he’s returned is outstanding. His height and ability to angle the ball make it jag inwards to right-handers and away from left-handers — a real challenge for batsmen. Having him in the team gives us assurance.”
Zimbabwe’s recent exposure to top-level opposition has boosted their self-belief. Although they were absent from the 2025 Test Championship, they played just one fewer Test than Australia and recently defeated Sri Lanka in a two-match T20 series.
“We have a solid blueprint and everyone trusts the process,” Burl added. “But executing on the field is what matters. It’s the combination of all elements that brings results.”
Zimbabwe Bowling Options for India Match
| Bowler | Type | Special Attributes |
|---|---|---|
| Blessing Muzarabani | Right-arm fast | 6’9” height, bounce, high release point |
| Richard Ngarava | Right-arm fast | Tall, seam movement |
| Ryan Burl | Right-arm medium | All-rounder, variations in pace |
| Sikandar Raza | Off-spin / mystery spin | Experienced, can bowl with the new ball |
| Graeme Cremer | Leg-spin | Leg breaks, attacking spinner |
| Wellington Masakadza | Left-arm finger spin | Variation against left-handers |
Zimbabwe’s strategy revolves around exploiting this blend of pace, bounce, and spin to counter India’s formidable batting lineup, aiming to turn the Chennai pitch into a testing ground for the visitors.