Sikandar Raza returns as Zimbabwe gear up for one-off Test against England

Zimbabwe Cricket on Saturday announced a 15-member squad for their much-anticipated one-off Test match against England, set to take place at Trent Bridge from May 22.

The fixture is of historic significance as it marks Zimbabwe’s return to Test cricket on English soil for the first time since 2003 — a gap of 21 years.

The Chevrons are coming off a competitive two-match Test series against Bangladesh, which concluded in a 1-1 draw.

Zimbabwe edged the first match with a thrilling three-wicket win, while Bangladesh bounced back strongly in the second Test to level the series.

 Zimbabwe has made three changes to the squad that toured Bangladesh. The most notable inclusion is star all-rounder Sikandar Raza, who replaces Jonathan Campbell.

Raza’s experience and versatility are expected to add both depth and balance to the squad.

Wicketkeeper Clive Madande also returns to the side after recovering from an injury.

Meanwhile, Vincent Masekesa, who impressed with a five-wicket haul on debut against Bangladesh, misses out.

The selectors have instead opted for pacer Newman Nyamhuri, a strategic move considering the seam-friendly pitches expected in England.

Head coach Justin Sammons expressed his optimism about the team’s prospects and encouraged the players to seize the opportunity of playing against a world-class opponent like England.

Zimbabwe squad for England Test:
Craig Ervine (c), Brian Bennett, Ben Curran, Trevor Gwandu, Clive Madande, Wessly Madhevere, Wellington Masakadza, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Newman Nyamhuri, Victor Nyauchi, Sikandar Raza, Tafadzwa Tsiga, Nicholas Welch, and Sean Williams.