Zimbabwe Cricket unveiled their T20I squad for the home series against Ireland that features former England batter Gary Ballance. According to the details, the former England batter Ballance recently signed a two-year deal with Zimbabwe Cricket – the country of his birth – following his exclusion from county cricket side Yorkshire in December last year. Notably, Ballance represented England in 23 Tests and 16 ODIs between 2014 and 2017. “I’m thrilled to be joining Zimbabwe Cricket and can’t wait to start work with some great coaches and talented players,” said Ballance.

“The opportunity to represent Zimbabwe has given me a new-found passion and excitement for the game. “I have kept in touch with a number of people within Zimbabwe cricket over the years and it has been great to watch their recent progress especially.”Meanwhile, dynamic all-rounder Sikandar Raza was omitted from the squad for Ireland T20Is as he has been granted permission to partake in the United Arab Emirate’s (UAE) ILT20, in which he will represent Dubai Capitals.

Furthermore, right-arm pacer Blessing Muzarabani, who is recovering from a quadriceps injury was also missing from the squad alongside wicketkeeper-batter Regis Chakabva and Milton Shumba. Whereas, Innocent Kaia, Tadiwanashe Marumani and Victor Nyauchi have all been called up for the home T20I series. It is apropos to mention that the three-match series between Zimbabwe and Ireland will be played on January 12, 14 and 15 at Harare Sports Club followed by ODI series of as many matches, scheduled to take place at the same venue on January 18, 21 and 23.

ZIMBABWE SQUAD: Craig Ervine (capt), Gary Ballance, Ryan Burl, Tendai Chatara, Bradley Evans, Luke Jongwe, Innocent Kaia, Clive Madande, Wessly Madhevere, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wellington Masakadza, Tony Munyonga, Richard Ngarava, Victor Nyauchi, Sean Williams.