RECENT FORM

INDIA

The Indians, with a number of promising youngsters, produced more than what was expected of them at the Mini World Cup in Kenya earlier this month. But coming to Sharjah, as the hot favourites were beaten comprehensively by Sri Lankans, thus creating a doubt about their inconsistent performance.

ZIMBABWE

Zimbabwe went in to the ICC knock out tourney after beating New Zealand 2-1 in a one-day international series. But lost to New Zealand in the quarter final. Their in-form batsmen Campbell will be back for today's match thus strengthening the batting line up.

RECENT HEAD TO HEADS

Zimbabwe has lost the last encounter with India at Gymkhana in October last year. India has looked good and a better side with the inclusion of new members.

The Zimbabwe side in absence of Neil Johnson and Murray Goodwin has not looked impressive except for the 2-1 series win over New Zealand.

Sourav Ganguly's India would put in every thing to win today's clash and would want their recent impressive form to continue despite a defeat in the opener of he Trophy.

TEAM NEWS

INDIA

Sunil Joshi will replace injured Anil Kumble. Rahul Dravid will open the innings with master blaster batsman, Sachin Tendulkar and skipper Saurav Ganguly will bat at Number 4.

ZIMBABWE

Zimbabwe have made three changes in the side that lost to Sri Lanka yesterday. The in form, Alistair Campbell will return after a one match ban and Grant Flower will also stage a come back in the team. Leg spinner Paul Strang and opener Mark Vermuelen will sit out. While Fast bowler Pommie Mbangwa will come in place of Mluleki Nkala.

SQUAD

INDIA

R Dravid, SR Tendulkar, VG Kambli, SC Ganguly (Captain), Yuvraj Singh, RR Singh, SB Joshi, AB Agarkar, V Dahiya (Wicket Keeper), Z Khan, BKV Prasad.

ZIMBABWE

ADR Campbell, DA Marillier, SV Carlisle, A Flower (Wicket Keeper), GJ Whittall, DP Viljoen, HH Streak (Captain), GW Flower, BC Strang, M Mbangwa, TJ Friend.

UAECRICKET.COM PREDICTION

The Indians will come up with something new and stamp their authority, and Zimbabwe would be looking to upset the Indians and push for a place in the Coca-Cola Champions Trophy final.