Zimbabwe’s ODI and T20 squads have been announced for the upcoming series against India, with the major change being that captain Hamilton Masakadza has been replaced by Graeme Cremer at the helm. Masakadza, however, continues to be part of both squads, but new captain Cremer’s deputy will be wicketkeeper Richmond Mutumbami. Tinashe Panyangara’s injury-forced absence gives their new ball attack a slightly depleted look.
The tour will consist of three ODIs and three T20s, starting from 11 June, with all matches to be played at the Harare Sports Club stadium.
Cremer himself was one of the people surprised at the responsibility of captaincy being handed to him, especially since leg spinners are generally not made captains, as he conceded in his first interview after the announcement. He takes over after short captaincy stints by Elton Chigumbura and Masakadza, both of whom had unsuccessful stays.
Zimbabwe’s squad also has several changes in the coaching personnel, with Dav Whatmore having been sacked for Makhaya Ntini, who is the interim head coach. Also on board with the side are legendary African cricketers Tatenda Taibu and Lance Klusener, in roles of convenor and batting consultant respectively.
India’s squad for the series also has several changes from the usual, with senior players like Virat Kohli having been rested to give some young guns an opportunity of appearing in India colours.
What will be a very rare case for the India captain, MS Dhoni’s opposite number will be walking out to the toss on 11th June with him without having captained a single international match.
Zimbabwe ODI Squad:
Graeme Cremer (C), Richmond Mutumbami, Taurai Muzarabani, Chamunorwa Chibhabha, Peter Joseph Moor, Elton Chigumbura, Vusimuzi Sibanda, Tawanda Mupariwa, Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza Butt, Neville Madziva, Donald Tiripano, Timycen Maruma, Wellington Maskadza, Tendai Chisoro, Hamilton Masakadza, Tendai Chatara, Craig Ervine
Zimbabwe T20I Squad:
Graeme Cremer (C), Richmond Mutumbami, Taurai Muzarabani, Brian Chari, Peter Joseph Moor, Elton Chigumbura, Vusimuzi Sibanda, Luke Jongwe, Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza Butt, Neville Madziva, Donald Tiripano, Timycen Maruma, Wellington Maskadza, Tendai Chisoro, Hamilton Masakadza, Tendai Chatara, Malcolm Waller
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