Team India look a settled unit going into their last game in the group phase. MS Dhoni has refrained from testing the bench strength in the previous matches, instead deciding to stick with the winning combination.
Where to watch World Cup match online live streaming
The India vs Zimbabwe is scheduled for a 01:00 GMT (06:30 IST) start, with live streaming option HERE for India viewers. Star Sports network will telecast the match in India. Live score updates are available HERE and HERE. In Australia, FOX Sports will telecast the match live, with live streaming option HERE. Viewers can also watch the action live online HERE. Sky Sports will broadcast the game in the United Kingdom with live streaming option HERE.
The Auckland wicket is expected to be quicker and spicier and a seam all-rounder instead of Ravindra Jadeja could come in handier. However, Dhoni has made it clear that unless there is an injury, he will not change the winning XI.
“The new-ball bowlers have struck early, where they possibly haven’t done that in the past, and they’re bowling with some good pace too,” Zimbabwe skipper Brendon Taylor said.
“That’s certainly good for Indian cricket, and it’ll be very challenging for us tomorrow, not just the pace but the swing they’re producing at the moment,” he added.
With a solitary win under their belt, Zimbabwe have no chance of forcing their way into the quarter finals. The match against India holds mere academic interest in regards with the tournament but for Zimbabwe it is a chance to test themselves against the best.
“Irrespective of the opposition, we always look to win games,” Mohammed Shami said. “Cricket is a game of uncertainties and we always look to play the way we have been playing till now and it will be no different against Zimbabwe.”
This game might not have any bearing on the World Cup but for one man its significance is immense. Zimbabwe’s best batsman over the years, Brendan Taylor, will be donning his national colours for the last time, at least for the foreseeable future.
India (probable): Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, Suresh Raina, MS Dhoni (c), Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohit Sharma, Mohammed Shami and Umesh Yadav.
Zimbabwe (probable): Chamu Chibhabha, Sikandar Raza, Hamilton Masakadza, Brendan Taylor (c), Sean Williams, Craig Ervine, Solomon Mire, Regis Chakabva, Tinashe Panyangara, Tawanda Mupariwa and Tendai Chatara.
