Zimbabwe suffered a setback ahead of their ODI series against Sri Lanka as veteran captain Craig Ervine was ruled out due to a calf injury sustained on the eve of the opening match at Harare Sports Club. In his absence, seasoned all-rounder Sean Williams will lead the side.
Ervine, 40, underwent an MRI scan on Thursday which revealed a Grade II strain in his left calf and a chronic, resolving Grade I strain in his right calf. The injury sidelines one of Zimbabwe’s most experienced batters, who has been a pivotal figure in the team’s top order.
Over a 15-year international career, Ervine has featured in 128 ODIs, amassing 3,600 runs at an average of 33.02. His record includes four centuries and 23 fifties, with a career-best 130* against New Zealand in Harare in 2015. His last ODI appearance came earlier this year against Ireland.
While Ervine’s absence is a blow, Zimbabwe fans have reason to be optimistic as Brendan Taylor returns to the squad. The former captain and prolific run-scorer is making his comeback to international cricket following a three-year ban related to corruption charges. Taylor, widely regarded as one of Zimbabwe’s finest batters, has scored 11 centuries in 203 ODI innings.
Both Ervine and Williams had missed Zimbabwe’s Test against Ireland in February—Ervine for personal reasons, and Williams due to a back injury—but returned for the home Test series against Bangladesh in April-May.
The leadership baton now passes to Williams, who will be tasked with guiding a side looking to rebuild momentum and capitalize on Taylor’s return to the fold.