Sikandar Raza is set to make a comeback to the Zimbabwe Test side as they gear up for their four-day match against England in Nottingham, scheduled from 22nd to 25th May. Raza’s absence from the earlier Tests against Ireland and Bangladesh was owed to his commitments in franchise T20 leagues.
Replacing Johnathan Campbell in the squad that toured Bangladesh, Raza’s return aims to bolster the team. Clive Madande, recovering from injury, steps in as the backup wicketkeeper for Tafadzwa Tsiga, taking over from Nyasha Mayavo. With the conditions in England in consideration, Zimbabwe has opted out legspinner Vincent Masekesa, despite his debut success with a five-wicket haul in Chattogram. Newman Nyamhuri has been included to strengthen the seam attack.
Head coach Justin Sammons shared his expectations, stating, “In terms of performance, I expect us to play to a standard that can compete with one of the best teams in the world. I really want to see the guys walking out there believing that they belong, embracing and enjoying the moment.”
This Test marks Zimbabwe’s return to England for the first time since their 2003 tour, and their first international match there in over a decade. After the Test, Zimbabwe will face South Africa in Arundel from 3rd to 6th June, a match serving as preparation for South Africa’s World Test Championship final against Australia at Lord’s, set for 11th to 15th June.
Zimbabwe Squad for England Test:
Craig Ervine (captain), Brian Bennett, Ben Curran, Trevor Gwandu, Clive Madande (wk), Wessly Madhevere, Wellington Masakadza, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Newman Nyamhuri, Victor Nyauchi, Sikandar Raza, Tafadzwa Tsiga (wk), Nick Welch, Sean Williams.
