Sikandar Raza to lead (Source:@JoshMunthali,x.com)
Zimbabwe Cricket has confirmed that seasoned all-rounder Sikandar Raza will lead the side in the upcoming T20I Tri-Series against South Africa and New Zealand, set to begin on July 14 at Harare Sports Club. The series will serve as a crucial platform for Zimbabwe to test its squad depth ahead of future international commitments.
Key Players Return To Boost Zimbabwe's Campaign
Zimbabwe has received a timely boost with the return of left-arm pacer Richard Ngarava, who has recovered from a lower-back injury that had ruled him out. His inclusion adds strength and experience to the pace attack, which also features Blessing Muzarabani.
Another key player making his comeback is Brian Bennett, the dynamic all-rounder who missed part of the recent Test series against South Africa in Bulawayo due to a concussion. His return provides the team with greater balance in both batting and bowling departments.
“The squad also retains Ryan Burl, Tony Munyonga and Tashinga Musekiwa, all of whom impressed during Zimbabwe’s last T20I assignment against Ireland in February,” the board said in the release.
“Adding depth to the group are three uncapped players in the shortest format: wicketkeeper-batter Tafadzwa Tsiga, left-arm paceman Newman Nyamhuri and leg-spinner Vincent Masekesa,” the released added.
Fresh Faces Included
It is important to mention that Zimbabwe has included three uncapped players in the T20I squad. Tafadzwa Tsiga, a reliable wicketkeeper-batter with a solid domestic record, earns his maiden T20I call-up. Newman Nyamhuri has been also been drafted in to provide variation in the pace attack.
Vincent Masekesa, a leg-spinner known for his sharp turn and control, adds spin options alongside the experienced Wellington Masakadza.
The Tri-Series will follow a double round-robin format, where each team plays the other twice. The top two sides at the end of the league stage will face off in the final on July 26.
Zimbabwe’s Fixtures:
14 July: Zimbabwe vs South Africa
18 July: Zimbabwe vs New Zealand
20 July: Zimbabwe vs South Africa
24 July: Zimbabwe vs New Zealand
26 July: Final
All the games will be played at Harare Sports Club.
Zimbabwe T20I squad
Sikandar Raza (Captain), Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl, Trevor Gwandu, Clive Madande, Wessly Madhevere, Tinotenda Maposa, Wellington Masakadza, Vincent Masekesa, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Blessing Muzarabani, Dion Myers, Richard Ngarava, Newman Nyamhuri, Tafadzwa Tsiga
