Zimbabwe Cricket has announced its ODI squad for the upcoming series against Pakistan, led by Craig Ervine, while also retaining their successful T20I squad. The team features both established players and three uncapped talents, presenting a strategic mix aimed at enhancing performance against formidable opponents like Pakistan.
On November 18, 2023, Zimbabwe Cricket announced its selected squad for the upcoming white-ball series against Pakistan. The One Day International (ODI) team will be under the captaincy of Craig Ervine, with notable players such as Sikandar Raza and Sean Williams also included. Additionally, the squad features the pace bowlers Blessing Muzarabani and Richard Ngarava, while three uncapped players—Trevor Gwandu, Tashinga Musekiwa, and Tinotenda Maposa—have been invited to join the team. David Mutendera, Zimbabwe’s Convener of Selectors, expressed confidence in the blend of experience and youth within the squad. He emphasized the importance of the series against Pakistan, stating, “The series against Pakistan is an important platform for Zimbabwe, and we believe the ODI squad we have selected is well-rounded.” The Zimbabwean team intends to build on its successful momentum from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 sub-regional qualifier held in Kenya, where they were previously led by Sikandar Raza. Despite the continuity in the T20I squad, certain key players such as Craig Ervine, Sean Williams, and Joylord Gumbie have been omitted to maintain cohesion among the T20 team. Mutendera explained, “We felt it was essential to maintain the same T20I squad that excelled in Kenya. This continuity allows the team to build on the cohesion and confidence that drove their outstanding performance.” Facing a strong opponent like Pakistan presents a notable opportunity for Zimbabwe to assess their progress in the international arena. “Facing a high-calibre side like Pakistan is a tremendous opportunity for us to gauge our progress and showcase Zimbabwe’s potential on the international stage,” stated Mutendera. The squads are as follows: ODI Squad: Craig Ervine, Faraz Akram, Brian Bennett, Joylord Gumbie, Trevor Gwandu, Clive Madande, Tinotenda Maposa, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Brandon Mavuta, Tashinga Musekiwa, Blessing Muzarabani, Dion Myers, Richard Ngarava, Sikandar Raza, Sean Williams. T20I Squad: Sikandar Raza, Faraz Akram, Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl, Trevor Gwandu, Clive Madande, Wessly Madhevere, Tinotenda Maposa, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wellington Masakadza, Brandon Mavuta, Tashinga Musekiwa, Blessing Muzarabani, Dion Myers, Richard Ngarava.
Zimbabwe has made strides in its cricketing efforts, particularly after a commendable performance in the recent ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 sub-regional qualifier held in Kenya. The upcoming series against Pakistan is seen as a vital test for the team, which will allow them to evaluate their skills against a formidable opponent. With a mix of seasoned players and new faces, the selected squads aim to reinforce team chemistry while also showcasing Zimbabwe’s cricketing talent on an international platform.
In summary, Zimbabwe Cricket has announced its ODI and T20I squads for the series against Pakistan, aiming to leverage their recent successes while integrating new talent into the team. The leadership of Craig Ervine and Sikandar Raza, along with a blend of experience and youth, reflects a strategic approach to upcoming challenges. This series serves as a critical opportunity for Zimbabwe to test their capabilities against a strong opponent, potentially marking a significant step in their cricketing journey.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
