Veteran world-class all-rounder Sikandar Raza has returned to the Zimbabwe ODI squad ahead of their upcoming three-match series against Bangladesh, kicking off at Harare Sports Club tomorrow.
Zimbabwe Cricket named a 15-man squad looking to capitalise on the momentum of their historic Test victory—an innings-and-85-run triumph over the visitors earlier last week.
The experienced Raza returns to provide vital seniority alongside Craig Ervine as Zimbabwe transitions to the 50-over format.
All-rounders Ryan Burl and Wellington Masakadza, alongside paceman Ernest Masuku, have successfully bounced back into the national side for the white-ball series.
Wicketkeeper Clive Madande has also retained his place in the squad. Notably, veterans Graeme Cremer and Brendan Taylor, who featured in the triumphant Test squad last week, have been left out of the ODI selections.
Raza’s return comes at a time when he has reaffirmed that representing Zimbabwe remains his highest priority, even when it means walking away from lucrative franchise and county opportunities.
The star all-rounder cut short his stint with English county side Worcestershire during a crucial stage of their Vitality Blast campaign to honor his international obligations.
Speaking in an interview, Raza explained that his decision was driven by a promise he made to Zimbabwe Cricket and the country’s supporters, emphasizing that wearing Zimbabwe colors remains the ultimate honour.
“Sadly but I hold my international commitments with Zimbabwe especially very high,” said Raza.
“I made a promise with them that I’ll not miss a white-ball game. When it comes to Test cricket I’ll play whatever fixtures you have, half of it, because I think it will be very difficult for me to play eight to 10 Test matches or six Test matches in a year.”
Raza revealed that he had reached an understanding with the board regarding the longer format, adding:
“I said I’ll be available for three of them, but to see the team win suddenly without me makes me happy as well.”
Reflecting on the demands of an increasingly crowded global cricket calendar and the growing number of franchise leagues, Raza made it clear where his loyalties lie.
“Since I made that promise with the Zimbabwe Cricket Board and the fans that I’ll not miss a white-ball game, as much as it’s sad, I’m actually happy that I’m going to represent my country, which is for me the ultimate honour.”
The series marks a significant shift for Zimbabwe cricket, ushering in a new leadership era with fast bowler Richard Ngarava set to captain the ODI side for the first time.
Ngarava will spearhead a formidable pace attack that includes Blessing Muzarabani, Brad Evans, Newman Nyamhuri, and the recalled Masuku.
Meanwhile, the spin department will be anchored by Burl, Masakadza, and Wessly Madhevere. In-form batter Innocent Kaia, fresh off a maiden Test century against Bangladesh, also earns his spot in the ODI top order next to Ben Curran and Brian Bennett. Tadiwanashe Marumani and Madande will handle the wicketkeeping duties.
Zimbabwe ODI squad:
Richard Ngarava (Captain), Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl, Ben Curran, Craig Ervine, Brad Evans, Innocent Kaia, Clive Madande, Wessly Madhevere, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wellington Masakadza, Ernest Masuku, Blessing Muzarabani, Newman Nyamhuri, Sikandar Raza.
Match Schedule (Harare Sports Club)
1st ODI: Monday, July 6
2nd ODI: Thursday, July 9
3rd ODI: Saturday, July 11