Brendan Taylor Returns as Zim Name Squad for Sri L...

Brendan Taylor Returns as Zim Name Squad for Sri Lanka ODI Series

Witness Runodada- Zim Now Reporter

Zimbabwe Cricket has announced a 16-man squad for the upcoming two-match one-day international series against Sri Lanka, with veteran wicketkeeper-batter Brendan Taylor making a much-anticipated return to the national side.

The matches are scheduled for August 29 and 31 at Harare Sports Club, marking Taylor’s first ODI appearance since facing Ireland in September 2021.

The squad, captained by Craig Ervine, strikes a balance between experienced campaigners and fresh talent as Zimbabwe shifts focus from the red-ball format.

Having played seven Tests since their last ODI in February, the team now faces the challenge of quickly adapting to the pace and intensity of limited-overs cricket.

Middle-order stalwarts Sean Williams and Sikandar Raza are expected to anchor the batting, while the return of fit-again paceman Richard Ngarava, alongside Blessing Muzarabani, strengthens the bowling attack.

Four players who missed Zimbabwe’s last ODI series against Ireland — Clive Madande, Tony Munyonga, Brad Evans and uncapped seamer Ernest Masuku — have been included, signalling the selectors’ intention to blend experience with opportunity.

Newman Nyamhuri also retains his spot in a line-up that features promising all-round options such as Brian Bennett and Wessly Madhevere.

Convener of Selectors David Mutendera welcomed Taylor’s comeback, describing it as a significant boost for the team both on and off the field. “His experience and quality are invaluable, especially in pressure situations, and his presence will no doubt lift the dressing room,” Mutendera said.

“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 emphasized the need for clarity and discipline against Sri Lanka. “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,” he said.

Captain Craig Ervine acknowledged the challenge ahead, stressing the importance of flexibility and capitalising on home advantage. “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,” Ervine noted.

Zimbabwe’s selection has already drawn mixed reactions from fans, with some applauding the balance of experience and youth while others suggested alternative picks.

Still, there is widespread agreement that Brendan Taylor’s return, combined with the mix of seasoned performers and emerging players, provides a competitive edge.

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.