Zimbabwe have announced a 16-man squad for the two-match one-day international (ODI) series against Sri Lanka, with veteran wicketkeeper-batter Brendan Taylor making a highly anticipated return to the national side.
The matches are scheduled for 29 and 31 August at Harare Sports Club, marking Taylor’s first ODI appearance since facing Ireland in September 2021.
Captained by Craig Ervine, the squad blends experienced campaigners with emerging talent as Zimbabwe transitions from the red-ball format – having played seven Tests since their last ODI in February – into the fast-paced demands of limited-overs cricket.
Middle-order mainstays Sean Williams and Sikandar Raza are expected to provide stability, while the pace attack receives a boost from a fit-again Richard Ngarava alongside Blessing Muzarabani.
The squad also includes four players who did not feature in Zimbabwe’s last ODI series against Ireland in February: Clive Madande, Tony Munyonga, Brad Evans and uncapped seamer Ernest Masuku.
“We are delighted to welcome Brendan back into the fold,” Zimbabwe Convener of Selectors David Mutendera said.
“His experience and quality are invaluable, especially in pressure situations, and his presence will no doubt lift the dressing room.
“This squad has been selected to give us the best chance against a strong Sri Lankan side.
“We have combined proven match-winners with players who are hungry to make their mark, and that mix of experience and energy will be crucial as we transition from red-ball cricket to the fast pace of ODIs.”
Head Coach Justin Sammons added: “We’ve just come off a tough red-ball series and now it’s about adjusting to the tempo and intensity of one-day cricket.
“Sri Lanka are a strong white-ball side and will punish any lapses, so we need to be sharp from ball one.
“Clarity in roles will be key – each player must understand exactly what’s required. Get that right, and I believe we can compete strongly against a very disciplined Sri Lankan outfit.”
Captain Craig Ervine said: “Switching from red-ball to white-ball cricket is always a test, especially against a team of Sri Lanka’s calibre.
“We need to stay flexible, back our plans and make the most of our home conditions to compete strongly in both matches.”
ZIMBABWE SQUAD FOR ODI SERIES VS SRI LANKA:
Craig Ervine (Captain), Brian Bennett, Johnathan Campbell, Ben Curran, Brad Evans, Trevor Gwandu, Wessly Madhevere, Clive Madande, Ernest Masuku, Tony Munyonga, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Newman Nyamhuri, Sikandar Raza, Brendan Taylor, Sean Williams.
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