Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo, Zimpapers Sports Hub
ERNEST Masuku is finally on the brink of his first international cap after being named in Zimbabwe’s squad for the two-match One Day International (ODI) series against Sri Lanka at Harare Sports Club, starting Friday.
The Tuskers seamer has been one of the most reliable quicks in domestic cricket, carrying a List A average of 23.48. His call-up follows a superb Pro50 Championship campaign where he averaged 19 with the ball and collected 14 wickets in just six innings.
Only weeks ago, the 32-year-old underlined his readiness while playing for Zimbabwe A against Scotland XI at Harare Sports Club. He claimed nine wickets in two games, including a career best 7 for 35, as he tore through Scotland’s batting order to set up an eight-wicket victory.
Masuku is one of four changes from the squad that faced Ireland in February, joining Brad Evans, Tony Munyonga, and Clive Madande. The biggest headline, though, is the return of Brendan Taylor, who last played ODIs in 2021 before retiring and later serving a three and a half year suspension for breaching the ICC anti-corruption code.
The squad, captained by Craig Ervine, blends proven names with new energy as Zimbabwe shifts gears from seven Test matches in recent months back into the sharper demands of limited-overs cricket. Sean Williams and Sikandar Raza anchor the middle order, while the pace attack is boosted by the return of Blessing Muzarabani and a fit-again Richard Ngarava.
Convener of selectors David Mutendera said the team had been carefully balanced to give Zimbabwe a fighting chance.
“We are delighted to welcome Brendan back into the fold. His experience and quality are invaluable, especially in pressure situations, and his presence will no doubt lift the dressing room. This squad has been selected to give us the best chance against a strong Sri Lankan side. We have combined proven match winners with players hungry to make their mark, and that mix of experience and energy will be crucial,” Mutendera said.
Head Coach Justin Sammons added: “We’ve just come off a tough red-ball series and now it’s about adjusting to the tempo and intensity of one-day cricket. Sri Lanka are a strong white ball side and will punish any lapses, so we need to be sharp from ball one. Clarity in roles will be key. Each player must understand exactly what’s required. Get that right, and I believe we can compete strongly.”
Captain Ervine echoed that sentiment: “Switching from red-ball to white ball cricket is always a test, especially against a team of Sri Lanka’s calibre. We need to stay flexible, back our plans and make the most of our home conditions to compete strongly in both matches.”
The ODI series will be played on Friday and Sunday, followed by three T20Is at the same venue on September 3, 6, and 7.
Zimbabwe ODI Squad vs Sri Lanka:
Craig Ervine (Captain), Brian Bennett, Johnathan Campbell, Ben Curran, Brad Evans, Trevor Gwandu, Wessly
Madhevere, Clive Madande, Ernest Masuku, Tony Munyonga, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Newman Nyamhuri, Sikandar Raza, Brendan Taylor, Sean Williams.
– @brandon_malvin
