Zimbabwe Announce Squad for T20I Tri-Series Against South Africa and New Zealand, Sikandar Raza to Lead

Zimbabwe Cricket has announced a 16-member squad for the upcoming T20I tri-nation series featuring South Africa and New Zealand, set to take place from July 14 to July 26 at the Harare Sports Club. All-rounder Sikandar Raza will lead the side, which features a mix of experienced players, returning stars, and new faces, as Zimbabwe prepares to test itself against two of the strongest white-ball teams in international cricket.

The squad sees the return of key players who had been sidelined due to injuries. Left-arm pacer Richard Ngarava makes his comeback after recovering from a lower-back injury, while promising all-rounder Brian Bennett has been cleared to play following a concussion that kept him out of the recent Test series against South Africa. Their inclusion is expected to strengthen both the pace and all-round departments.

Zimbabwe have retained several players from their last T20I series against Ireland in February, including Ryan Burl, Tony Munyonga, and Tashinga Musekiwa, who impressed with consistent performances. The core team remains intact, giving Zimbabwe some stability heading into the high-profile series.

Three uncapped players have been included in the squad in a move to expand the team’s bench strength and provide exposure at the top level. Wicketkeeper-batter Tafadzwa Tsiga, left-arm fast bowler Newman Nyamhuri, and leg-spinner Vincent Masekesa have all been handed opportunities to showcase their talent in the T20I format.

Zimbabwe will play four matches in the round-robin phase before a final. They are set to open their campaign against South Africa on July 14, followed by matches against New Zealand on July 18, South Africa again on July 20, and New Zealand on July 24. The final between the top two sides will be played on July 26. All fixtures will be held at the Harare Sports Club.

The full squad includes Sikandar Raza (captain), Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl, Trevor Gwandu, Clive Madande, Wessly Madhevere, Tinotenda Maposa, Wellington Masakadza, Vincent Masekesa, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Blessing Muzarabani, Dion Myers, Richard Ngarava, Newman Nyamhuri, and Tafadzwa Tsiga.