Zimbabwe Recall Four for Bangladesh ODI Series

Zimbabwe have named a 15-member squad for the upcoming three-match One-Day International (ODI) series against Bangladesh, recalling four players as they seek to build on the confidence gained from their historic victory in the recent one-off Test.

The hosts registered a memorable innings-and-85-run triumph over Bangladesh in the solitary Test, one of their most significant victories in recent years. Buoyed by that success, Zimbabwe will now look to maintain their winning momentum in the 50-over format when the ODI series gets under way on 6 July.

Among the notable inclusions are Innocent Kaia, Ryan Burl, Tadiwanashe Marumani and Wellington Masakadza, all of whom return to the national ODI set-up after missing Zimbabwe’s previous series in the format.

Kaia’s recall is particularly noteworthy. The opening batter last represented Zimbabwe in an ODI in December 2023 and has earned his place back through a series of impressive performances. He was the standout performer in the recent Test against Bangladesh, scoring a superb 140 to lay the foundation for Zimbabwe’s commanding victory.

The innings also reinforced Kaia’s impressive record against Bangladesh. Both of his Test centuries have come against the Tigers, highlighting his ability to perform against the South Asian side. He had earlier enjoyed success against Bangladesh while representing Zimbabwe A, scoring an ODI century during a tour, making him one of the hosts’ key batting hopes for the forthcoming series.

Experienced all-rounder Sikandar Raza, who did not feature in the one-off Test, has been included in the ODI squad and is expected to play a pivotal role in Zimbabwe’s middle order. Widely regarded as one of the country’s most influential white-ball cricketers, Raza’s all-round ability and leadership experience add valuable balance to the side.

Ryan Burl also returns after producing encouraging performances for Zimbabwe A during their recent tour of Bangladesh, where he contributed scores of 50 and 20. The left-handed all-rounder further strengthened his case for selection with two centuries in domestic cricket in March, underlining his strong recent form.

Tadiwanashe Marumani has been recalled as one of two wicketkeeping options alongside Clive Madande, while left-arm spinner Wellington Masakadza returns to bolster Zimbabwe’s spin attack with his experience and control.

Zimbabwe last played an ODI series against Sri Lanka last year, and the latest squad features several notable omissions from that side. Brendan Taylor, Sean Williams, Jonathan Campbell, Tony Munyonga and Trevor Gwandu have all been left out of the squad.

Williams remains unavailable as he continues to undergo a rehabilitation programme for substance dependency, while the remaining omissions reflect Zimbabwe’s preference for players who have impressed either in domestic cricket or through recent international performances.

The team will once again be led by left-arm fast bowler Richard Ngarava, reflecting Zimbabwe Cricket’s continued confidence in his leadership. He will be supported by an experienced core comprising Craig Ervine, Sikandar Raza, Blessing Muzarabani and Ryan Burl, alongside emerging talents such as Brian Bennett, Ben Curran, Wesley Madhevere and Newman Nyamhuri.

All three matches of the ODI series will be played at Harare Sports Club. The opening fixture is scheduled for 6 July, with the remaining two matches to follow on 9 and 11 July. The two sides will then contest a three-match Twenty20 International series beginning on 15 July.

The ODI series will also mark the beginning of a new chapter for Zimbabwe’s coaching staff following the appointment of former West Indies pace great Courtney Walsh as bowling coach. Walsh, who previously served as Bangladesh’s bowling coach, officially begins his tenure with the home side during the white-ball series and will be aiming to strengthen Zimbabwe’s pace attack with his vast international experience.

Bangladesh, meanwhile, will be determined to respond positively after their disappointing Test defeat. The visitors will be hoping that the change in format allows them to reset quickly and produce a stronger performance in conditions where they have traditionally been more competitive.

With Zimbabwe riding the momentum of a landmark Test victory and Bangladesh eager to bounce back, the three-match ODI series promises to provide an intriguing contest between two sides with contrasting recent fortunes. It will also offer both teams an opportunity to fine-tune their combinations and assess player form ahead of a busy international calendar.

Zimbabwe ODI squad: Richard Ngarava (captain), Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl, Ben Curran, Craig Ervine, Brad Evans, Innocent Kaia, Clive Madande (wicketkeeper), Wesley Madhevere, Tadiwanashe Marumani (wicketkeeper), Wellington Masakadza, Ernest Masuku, Blessing Muzarabani, Newman Nyamhuri and Sikandar Raza.