ZIM vs WI: Gary Ballance gets Test entry, Craig Ervine to lead Zimbabwe

Ballance represented England in 23 Tests (Twitter)

On Tuesday, Zimbabwe announced a 16-member squad to face a strong West Indies lineup at home in the two-match Test series. In the absence of their regular Test leader Sean Williams, Craig Ervine will be captaining the national team.

The former England batter, Gary Ballance is a headline entry to Zimbabwe's Test fold after making his debut for the Chevrons last month against Ireland. He last played a Test match back in 2017, which was against South Africa. 

The other notable inclusions to the squad are Innocent Kaia, Donald Tiripano and Chamu Chibhabha. The latter two have been recalled for the Test scheme of things, while Kaia is expected to debut against the Windies.

Uncapped players such as Tafadzwa Tsiga, Joylord Gumbie, Kudzai Maunze and Tanunurwa Makoni have earned their call-ups, as at least half a dozen renowned Zimbabwe players will be missing the series.

Sikandar Raza and Ryan Burl won't be participating in the series due to their commitments in franchise league cricket. In addition, Williams, Blessing Muzarabani and Tendai Chatara are struggling with their fitness; hence, they won't be available.

West Indies have already announced their squad for the tour to Zimbabwe, and they will be assisted by Brian Lara as a mentor.

Zimbabwe's squad for WI Tests

Craig Ervine (C), Gary Ballance, Innocent Kaia, Chamunorwa Chibhabha, Tanaka Chivanga, Bradley Evans, Joylord Gumbie, Tanunurwa Makoni, Wellington Masakadza, Kudzai Maunze, Brandon Mavuta, Richard Ngarava, Victor Nyauchi, Milton Shumba, Donald Tiripano, Tafadzwa Tsiga.

Both the Test matches will be played at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. The first match will begin from Saturday (February 4), while the second Test will be contested between February 12-16.

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