Zimbabwean all-rounder Sikandar Raza has confirmed his unavailability for the upcoming one-off Test against Ireland, scheduled to be held at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo from February 3 to 7, 2025. The match marks a rare Test appearance for Ireland, who last played in the format in April 2023.
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Raza, one of Zimbabwe's key players, is unable to participate due to his commitments in franchise cricket. He is currently involved in the International League T20 (ILT20) in the UAE, representing Dubai Capitals. This development leaves Zimbabwe without one of their most experienced cricketers for this significant fixture.
The Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) board announced the Test against Ireland following the recent confirmation of fixtures by Cricket Ireland. Both boards aim to expand opportunities in red-ball cricket, with Ireland preparing for the 2025-27 ICC World Test Championship cycle and Zimbabwe focusing on consistent Test match scheduling.
This game will also be Zimbabwe's first Test since their two-match series against West Indies in February 2023, which ended in a draw. Meanwhile, Ireland, still searching for their maiden Test victory, will look to capitalize on this opportunity. Their most recent Test series against Sri Lanka saw them suffer a clean sweep, but the Irish side has shown resilience and determination in the longest format.
With Raza unavailable, Zimbabwe will rely on their younger players to step up and fill the void. The one-off Test promises to be an exciting clash as both teams look to leave a mark in red-ball cricket. The one-off Test match will be played from 6th Feb to 10th Feb in Bulawayo.
Zimbabwe Test squad: Craig Ervine (c), Brian Bennett, Johnathan Campbell, Ben Curran, Joylord Gumbie, Trevor Gwandu, Takudzwanashe Kaitano, Vincent Masekesa, Nyasha Mayavo, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Newman Nyamhuri, Victor Nyauchi, Nicholas Welch, Sean Williams
