India is all set to lock horns with Zimbabwe in the three-match ODI series, to be played from August 18 to August 22. 

The Indian squad will be led by KL Rahul with Shikhar Dhawan being his deputy. With senior players being rested, it’ll be an opportunity for young players to stake their claim and make their case strong for the T20 World Cup 2022.

Notably, Dhawan was originally slated to captain India during this tour but BCCI later added KL Rahul to the squad and handed him the leadership role. 

With just a few hours remaining for the start of the first game, Dhawan addressed India's pre-match press conference but it was marred by a hilarious incident. The southpaw failed to understand the reporter's accent due to which he wasn’t able to understand the question properly.

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"Shikhar, how difficult is it to play a team like Zimbabwe at this moment… who have been struggling for a long period. They haven't even played much against the Indian team. Do you expect to beat a team like Zimbabwe,” the reporter asked. 

To which Dhawan replied: "Ah, I didn't get it. Can you repeat? I couldn't understand your accent, sir".This hilarious moment was cherished by almost everyone there and they burst out in laughter.

Here’s the video: 

Dhawan then heard his question with concentration and replied by saying: "I feel it is very good for world cricket that we are playing against Zimbabwe. It is good for us, it is good for them to play against such a quality side. It will give them confidence and it is good for our youngsters. We have got young boys and we can try out all the young guns. 

“Coming and playing in different conditions is always a challenge and trying to win this series will be no different. This series is good exposure for both sides and that is how even Zimbabwe are going to get better. That is how they are going to learn,” he said. 

(Hindustan Times inputs)