Why is Blessing Muzarabani Missing from Zimbabwe's T20I Tri-Series Squad in Pakistan?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Harare, Nov 10 (NationPress) Seamer Blessing Muzarabani has been sidelined due to an injury as Zimbabwe announces its squad for the forthcoming T20I tri-series in Pakistan, which kicks off on November 17.
This tri-series, which includes Sri Lanka, serves as a vital opportunity for Zimbabwe to prepare for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup next year. The team has qualified for this prestigious event for the first time since the 2022 edition, securing their spot through the African qualifiers.
The only modification in the Zimbabwe squad from their recent series against Afghanistan at home is the absence of fast bowling leader Muzarabani due to a back injury. In his place, Newman Nyamhuri has been included in the squad.
Zimbabwe is captained by the experienced all-rounder Sikandar Raza and will commence their campaign against the hosts, Pakistan, at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on November 17. They will then face Sri Lanka at the same location on November 19.
Subsequently, Zimbabwe will travel to Lahore for their remaining round-robin matches, taking on Pakistan again on November 23, followed by a clash with Sri Lanka on November 25 at the Gaddafi Stadium. The top two teams from the points table will compete in the final on November 29 in Lahore.
Zimbabwe has taken Afghanistan's place as the third team in this tri-series after Afghanistan withdrew due to cross-border tensions with Pakistan.
Zimbabwe squad for tri-series: Sikandar Raza (captain), Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl, Graeme Cremer, Bradley Evans, Clive Madande, Tinotenda Maposa, Wellington Masakadza, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Dion Myers, Richard Ngarava, Newman Nyamhuri, and Brendan Taylor.
T20I Tri-Series schedule
November 17 – Pakistan v Zimbabwe, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi
November 19 – Sri Lanka v Zimbabwe, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi
November 22 – Pakistan v Sri Lanka, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
November 23 – Pakistan v Zimbabwe, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
November 25 – Sri Lanka v Zimbabwe, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
November 27 – Pakistan v Sri Lanka, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
November 29 – Final, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore