Zimbabwe have brought in some fresh blood for their squad in the upcoming three-match T20I series against India, with three signings announced, setting the stage for a hot game in Harare.
After losing the T20I series 2-1 to Bangladesh, Zimbabwe have brought on all-rounder Wessly Madhevere and fast bowler Newman Nyamhuri. Wicketkeeper-batter Tafadzwa Tsiga has also gained his first T20I selection as he brings an interesting new face into the batting lineup.
Tsiga, 32, has represented Zimbabwe in 10 Test matches but is yet to play limited-overs international cricket. His presence might bring some stability and experience to the hosts’ bowling line-up.
Nyamhuri gets back into the squad after missing his fitness issue in the Bangladesh series. However, his replacement, Tanaka Chivanga, has left a good impression and will be kept. Clive Madande, Tinotenda Maposa, and Tashinga Musekiwa are the three players to miss out.
Captain Sikandar Raza will once again be carrying Zimbabwe’s hopes as they go on to surprise the reigning T20 World Cup champions. The all-rounder will be leading a team of relatively experienced players like Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, and Ryan Burl, as well as some young promising players.
India holds the advantage of being the favorites, but their recent T20I woes make for an intriguing possibility that they may be upset at the W20 World Cup. The Men in Blue have lost their last seven games following their loss to Ireland and England, it is said.
The first three Zimbabwe-India T20Is will be held at Harare Sports Club on July 23, 25, and 26 from 4.30 pm IST.
Zimbabwe squad: Sikandar Raza (captain), Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl, Tanaka Chivanga, Ben Curran, Brad Evans, Wessly Madhevere, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wellington Masakadza, Blessing Muzarabani, Dion Myers, Richard Ngarava, Newman Nyamhuri, Milton Shumba, and Tafadzwa Tsiga.
