ZIM vs IND 2026: 3 players making a comeback to India’s squad

India have made a few notable changes to their squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series against Zimbabwe. After suffering back-to-back series defeats against Ireland and England, the Men in Blue will be eager to bounce back and return to winning ways.

The selectors have recalled a few familiar faces in a bid to add more depth and firepower to the squad. While some have earned their place through consistent performances in the IPL, others are returning after injury layoffs or time away from the national setup.

Here are 3 Indian players making a comeback for Zimbabwe T20Is:

3. Prabhsimran Singh

Prabhsimran Singh has earned a return to the Indian squad after nearly three years. The wicketkeeper-batter last represented India during the 2023 Asian Games but has forced his way back with impressive performances in the IPL.

The Punjab Kings opener enjoyed two productive seasons, scoring 579 runs in IPL 2025 before backing it up with 510 runs in 14 matches in IPL 2026. He averaged 42.50 while striking at an outstanding 168.87, consistently providing explosive starts at the top of the order.

Although Ishan Kishan is expected to be India’s first-choice wicketkeeper, Prabhsimran’s attacking batting style gives the team another aggressive option and quality backup behind the stumps.

2. Mayank Yadav

Express pacer Mayank Yadav returns to India’s T20I squad after a lengthy injury layoff. The speedster last featured for India in 2024 before multiple injury setbacks stalled his progress.

Mayank missed the initial phase of IPL 2025 and was eventually ruled out of the tournament altogether. He returned to competitive cricket earlier this year, representing India A in a T20 World Cup warm-up fixture against the USA.

The Lucknow Super Giants pacer also featured in four IPL matches during the 2026 season, although he went wicketless. Despite that, the selectors have once again shown faith in his raw pace and wicket-taking ability, hoping he can rediscover his best rhythm.

1. Rinku Singh

Rinku Singh is the biggest name among the returning players. The left-handed batter is back in India’s T20I squad after last representing the country during the Super Eight clash against South Africa at this year’s T20 World Cup.

Known for his finishing ability, Rinku has already established himself as one of India’s most dependable middle-order batters in the shortest format. In 45 T20Is, he has scored 665 runs at an impressive average of 39.11 and a strike rate of 155.73, including three half-centuries.

With India’s batting unit struggling in recent T20I series, Rinku’s return could provide the finishing spark the side has been missing. His calm temperament and ability to accelerate in the death overs make him a valuable addition as India look to begin a fresh chapter against Zimbabwe.