Online Reporter
Sports Reporter
ZIMBABWE cricket fans have taken to social media to express their views on the return of Sikandar Raza to the team ahead of the trip to the United Kingdom where they play a one-off four-day Test against England, in Nottingham from May 22 to 25.
The Nottingham Test will be Zimbabwe’s first in England since 2003, and their first international game in any format in the country since 2004. Following the four-day Test, the Zimbabweans will also play a four-day game against the South Africans in Arundel from June 3 to 6.
That match will serve as preparation for South Africa ahead of the World Test Championship final against Australia, which is set to be played at Lord’s from June 11 to 15.
The 39-year-old Raza, who last played Test cricket against Afghanistan early this year, replaced Jonathan Campbell after opting out of the series in Bangladesh while taking part in the Pakistan domestic T20 tournament.
In other squad changes, wicketkeeper Clive Madande is back from injury and replaced Nyasha Mayavo as back-up wicketkeeper to Tafadzwa Tsiga while seam bowler, Newman Nyamhuri returned to the Chevrons in place of leg-spinner Vincent Masekesa, who took five wickets on debut.
The explanation on Nyamhuri replacing Masekesa is that the conditions in the UK are seam-friendly and hence the need to strengthen the pace bowling department.
Chevrons coach Justin Sammons expressed confidence in the group, saying:
“In terms of performance, I expect us to play to a standard that can compete with one of the best teams in the world.
“I really want to see the guys walking out there believing that they belong, embracing and enjoying the moment.”
Meanwhile, a section of the fans questioned why Raza is allowed to choose when he wants to play and what this does to the spirits of those who avail themselves for every tour.
“I’ve seen some pretty harsh stuff being posted here on Raza. This is a massive Test match, and you’re willing to drop the face of Zimbabwe Cricket? Seriously? I’ve got a list ready, and I’ll come after you the moment Bhai scores even a single run in that Test,” protested one follower.
However, one even suggested that Raza serves self-interests at the expense of the Chevrons.
“The invisible face of Zim Cricket, where was he when the team needed him the most in those turning deep cracks of Bangladesh? He wants to be part of the England tour because of the media attention that comes with playing England so he can revive his IPL aspirations.
“Nothing new here, Raza being Raza and serving self interests,” he said.
In defence of Raza, one said:
“When he left the IPL to play Netherlands you didn’t say anything. When he left the BPL for Ireland did you say anything.”
Raza’s critics believe it is wrong to treat him as the face of Zimbabwe Cricket as it makes him feel more special than the rest of the eligible players.
“He is not the face of ZC though! So long you pick and choose games that tag doesn’t fit! Just because he plays in big franchises doesn’t make him the face of Zimbabwe cricket. We failed to qualify for major events with the face of ZC. He is just a good player. Imho,” added another critic.
Another one added:
“The importance of Raza should NEVER be undermined and with same proportionality playing for your nation especially in a once in forever test should NEVER be undermined either. The problem looms when one chooses franchise cricket over representing the nation.”
The debate is still raging.
Zimbabwe squad for four-day Test against England
Craig Ervine (capt), Brian Bennett, Ben Curran, Trevor Gwandu, Clive Madande (wk), Wessly Madhevere, Wellington Masakadza, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Newman Nyamhuri, Victor Nyauchi, Sikandar Raza, Tafadzwa Tsiga (wk), Nick Welch, Sean Williams.
