Experienced batter Sikandar Raza was named captain of a young Zimbabwe team for the five-match T20I series against world champions India, starting on July 6, 2024. This series marks a significant opportunity for Zimbabwe as they aim to rebuild and establish themselves in international cricket. The series promises exciting cricket, with young talents eager to make their mark against a formidable Indian side.

Zimbabwe Cricket has unveiled a youthful squad, led by seasoned campaigner Sikandar Raza, to take on world champions India in the upcoming five-match T20I series starting July 6th in Harare.

This selection reflects Zimbabwe’s focus on rebuilding under new head coach Justin Sammons, following their T20 World Cup qualification disappointment. Raza, the 38-year-old all-rounder, will be the team’s anchor with his vast experience of 86 T20I matches. Wicket-keeper Luke Jongwe (29) provides further stability with his 63 appearances at the international level.

The squad boasts exciting young talent, with players like Blessing Muzarabani (51 T20Is) and Richard Ngarava (52 T20Is) offering pace bowling firepower. Notably, experienced batters Craig Ervine and Sean Williams were not considered for selection, paving the way for fresh faces.

Intriguingly, the squad features Belgium-born Antum Naqvi, a batsman whose final inclusion hinges on confirmation of his Zimbabwean citizenship. Naqvi, born to Pakistani parents, recently expressed his desire to represent Zimbabwe and has applied for naturalization.

Here’s a closer look at the Zimbabwe squad:

• Captain: Sikandar Raza
• Players: Akram Faraz, Brian Bennett, Johnathan Campbell, Tendai Chatara, Luke Jongwe, Innocent Kaia, Clive Madande, Wessly Madhevere, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wellington Masakadza, Brandon Mavuta, Blessing Muzarabani, Dion Myers, Antum Naqvi (subject to citizenship confirmation), Richard Ngarava, Milton Shumba

This young Zimbabwe team is brimming with potential and will be eager to prove themselves against a formidable Indian side. The T20I series promises exciting cricket as the hosts look to build a strong foundation for the future.