Online Reporter
ZIMBABWE have named a significantly reshaped 15-player women’s cricket squad for the upcoming white-ball tour of Pakistan.
This marks the beginning of a long-term rebuilding phase focused on developing the next generation of international cricketers for the country.
Leading the group is interim captain Nomvelo Sibanda, one of only five players retained from the previous tour against New Zealand in March.
She will take up the responsibility of leading the group after long-standing skipper Mary-Anne Musonda called time on her international career on Monday.
She will be supported by experienced all-rounder Precious Marange, whose presence provides guidance to a relatively inexperienced squad.
Among the players to watch is promising all-rounder Kelis Ndhlovu, who returns after recovering from a concussion sustained during last month’s tour of New Zealand. She is joined by fellow emerging prospects Beloved Biza and Adel Zimunu.
The squad, however, will be without several experienced names.
Josephine Nkomo and Nyasha Gwanzura miss out due to injury, while Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano is unavailable due to personal commitments. Additionally, a number of players from the New Zealand tour – including Modester Mupachikwa, Chiedza Dhururu, Loreen Tshuma, Loryn Phiri and Tendai Makusha – have not been selected.
The tour itself represents a historic milestone, marking Zimbabwe Women’s first-ever visit to Pakistan.
The three-match ODI series, scheduled for May 3, 6 and 9, will form part of the ICC Women’s Championship 2025-2029 cycle, followed by a three-match T20I series on May 12, 14 and 15. All six matches will be played at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi.
Zimbabwe Women’s squad for Pakistan tour:
Nomvelo Sibanda (captain), Beloved Biza, Olinder Chare, Kudzai Chigora, Melinda Kachingwe, Lindokuhle Mabhera, Precious Marange, Michelle Mavunga, Natasha Mtomba, Christina Mutasa, Vimbai Mutungwindu, Kelis Ndhlovu, Kelly Ndiraya, Runyararo Pasipanodya, Adel Zimunu. — icc-cricket.com
