Sean Williams’ return a major boost

ZIMBABWE senior men’s cricket captain, Craig Ervine, is confident that a fully fit Sean Williams will play a crucial role in the team’s success as they host Ireland in a full series, starting with a one-off Test match at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo tomorrow.

Williams, who struggled with back pains in the New Year’s Day Test match against Afghanistan, was named in the Chevrons’ squad for the Test match and the one-day international (ODI) series against Ireland.

Ervine believes Williams’ experience and contributions in all departments will bring balance to the team.

“He is a big boost not only with the bat but with the ball as well. We have also seen the energy he brings to the field, so I think he is a big boost in all departments. Having him on the side does balance the team because he contributes to all those different departments. It’s really exciting to have him back, and hopefully, he will be fully fit by the time we go,” Ervine said.

The Zimbabwe Test squad also includes the uncapped duo of Vincent Masekesa, a 27-year-old leg-spinner and Nicholas Welch, a 26-year-old top-order batter.

Both players have been rewarded for their impressive performances on the domestic front.
Zimbabwe will be looking to make the most of their home advantage, having secured a four-wicket win in their last Test match against Ireland in Belfast in 2023.

**Zimbabwe Emerging players Antum Naqvi (left) and Nicholas Welch**

Ervine is confident that the team will stick to its processes and make it count.
The forthcoming game will be the second red-ball meeting between the two nations. The white-ball series consists of three ODIs and three T20Is, scheduled to take place at Harare Sports Club.

The three one-dayers are pencilled in for February 14, 16 and 18 while the 20-over matches will be played on February 22, 23 and 25.

Gate charges for the Test match are US$3 for the rest of the ground and US$5 for the grandstand. —@brandon_malvin