Before the Asia Cup 2022, Team India are set to tour Zimbabwe for a three-match ODI series, starting August 18.

KL Rahul will lead the second-string Indian squad against Zimbabwe while veteran opener Shikhar Dhawan will play the role of vice-captain.

Ahead of the series, Zimbabwe head coach Dave Houghton has issued a warning to the visitors, saying that the hosts can put up a serious contest against the Men in Blue.

See Also: VVS Laxman to coach India in Zimbabwe; Rahul Dravid to overlook Asia Cup preparations

"Having watched so much of Indian cricket and the IPL over the last few years, we know that India could probably put out three or four sides and perhaps be first, second, third, fourth in world cricket. Whatever side they send to us, we know it is going to be a strong and experienced side in terms of the amount of international cricket they play and it will be tough work for us," Dave Houghton was quoted as saying by Sportstar.

"But before we dispersed for a few days after last night’s game, I told the boys in the dressing room that India coming here is a good opportunity for us to really score and get good results against one of the best sides in the world. I told them that, I want us to believe that we aren’t here just to add up to the numbers and watch India play really good cricket, but we are here to challenge. I am hoping in these three games, we can challenge India really hard," he added.

The ODI series is part of the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup Super League, a 13-team competition serving as the qualification pathway for the ODI World Cup, slated to be held in India next year.

Zimbabwe are currently occupying the 12th position, with just three wins in 15 matches.

All the three ODIs between Zimbabwe and India will be played in Harare on August 18, 20 and 22.