Mohammad Kaif urges Shreyas Iyer to back Ravi Bishnoi in the IND vs ZIM T20I series

Ahead of the India vs. Zimbabwe series starting on July 23, former cricketer Mohammad Kaif has advised T20I captain Shreyas Iyer to provide wrist-spinner Ravi Bishnoi with adequate game time and reassurance. Bishnoi has been included in the Zimbabwe tour squad, replacing Varun Chakravarthy. 

Although he was part of the squad for the UK tour, he did not receive sufficient opportunities. He played in the second T20I against England but performed poorly, conceding 60 runs in four overs without taking a wicket, which led to his being dropped again. Bishnoi also struggled in this year's IPL, taking only 11 wickets in 9 matches for RR; the franchise even dropped him at one point, bringing Yash Raj Punja into the playing XI in his place. 

Kaif emphasised that Iyer needs to show faith in Bishnoi and boost his morale to extract his best performance. It will be interesting to see whether Bishnoi gets a chance in the playing XI. The Indian team is currently looking for a batting all-rounder at the number eight position, which could open up an opportunity for Harsh Dubey.

“Bishnoi only played one match in England before he was dropped. I want to see Iyer handle Bishnoi well. Tell him,' Brother, no matter how you play, you will get the full series'. Atleast give him the chance. If you give him just one match and then drop him, then there will be insecurity in the team," Mohammad Kaif said.”

“A player coming into the team witnessing this might think that if he does not perform in one match, he might get dropped. If you don't come in with the attacking style without any pressure, then you will lag behind in T20 cricket. So, in my opinion, Bishnoi, especially, assure him that you will play all matches, so bowl freely," Kaif added.  

The 3-match T20I series between India and Zimbabwe will begin on July 23. Following this, the 2nd & 3rd T20Is will be played on July 25 & 26. All three matches will be held at Harare Sports Club, Harare.