India vs New Zealand: Debutants to watch out for in T20Is ft. Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Venkatesh Iyer – India will kick off their three-match T20I series against New Zealand this week in their first game after a disappointing T20 World Cup campaign. The series marks the first assignment for the new coach Rahul Dravid and captain Rohit Sharma as India kick off their preparation for the 2022 T20 World Cup. The India vs New Zealand series will also feature some new faces with three players likely to make their debuts during the three games.
India vs New Zealand: Debutants to watch out for in T20Is ft. Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Venkatesh Iyer
1. Harshal Patel
Harshal Patel was one of the shining lights of the IPL 2021, winning the purple cap for his efforts. The pacer equalled Dwayne Bravo’s record for most wickets in an IPL season, having bagged 32 wickets throughout the tournament. Harshal Patel at 30 will be amongst India’s oldest debutants if he gets a game during the India vs New Zealand series, and the RCB star will be keen to make his mark in India colours.
2. Venkatesh Iyer
Venkatesh Iyer was one of the finds of the second phase of the IPL, helping KKR reach the finals of the tournament. Making his debut, the hard-hitting left-hander was one of the top performers, scoring a staggering 370 runs in just 10 games. He also chipped in with his medium pace, picking up three wickets, and will be eyed as a competition to Hardik Pandya as the Men in Blue continue their search for a pace-bowling all-rounder.
India vs New Zealand: Debutants to watch out for in T20Is ft. Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Venkatesh Iyer
3. Avesh Khan
Avesh Khan was only second to Harshal Patel in the purple cap race as the fast bowler was a key part of the Delhi Capitals’ run to the playoffs. Khan was brilliant with the new ball and his variations and was also with the squad for the tour of England, but an injury ruled him out of contention. He returned and continued to blossom in the IPL, and will be hoping to replicate those in the Indian colours.