Success-seeking Zimbabwe announce new-look squad for Ireland ODIs

Zimbabwe have announced a 16-member squad for the forthcoming three-match ODI series against Ireland. Notably, this squad features seven new players who were not part of the squad during the 2023 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup Qualifier in June and July. Takudzwanashe Kaitano, Tinashe Kamunhukamwe, Tanaka Chivanga, Faraz Akram, Brandon Mavuta, Milton Shumba, and Tony Munyonga are the fresh faces securing spots in the lineup. Among them, right-arm medium bowler Akram is the sole uncapped player in the 50-over format.

Unfortunately, injuries have ruled out Captain Craig Ervine, Sean Williams, and Brad Evans from the upcoming series. Meanwhile, Tendai Chatara, Wessly Madhevere, and Tadiwanashe Marumani were not included in the squad. Consequently, Sikandar Raza will lead the team in Ervine's absence. The three ODIs are scheduled to be played on December 13, 15, and 17, respectively, all to be hosted at the Harare Sports Club in Harare.

Zimbabwe missed out on the 2023 ODI World Cup held in India after failing to finish in the top two in the 2023 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup Qualifier held at home. Subsequently, they will also miss out on the Champions Trophy in 2025. In addition, they also failed to qualify for the 2024 T20 World Cup which will be jointly hosted by the United States of America and the West Indies. 

Zimbabwe are entering the series on the back of a 2-1 defeat to Ireland. The team led by Sean Williams got off to a solid start, winning the first T20I by just one wicket. Despite a strong start with a narrow win in the first T20I, Zimbabwe's batting performance faltered in the subsequent two games, leading to their series loss.

Zimbabwe squad for Ireland ODIs: Sikandar Raza (c), Faraz Akram, Ryan Burl, Tanaka Chivanga, Joylord Gumbie, Luke Jongwe, Innocent Kaia, Takudzwanashe Kaitano, Tinashe Kamunhukamwe, Clive Madande, Wellington Masakadza, Brandon Mavuta, Tony Munyonga, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava and Milton Shumba