Zimbabwe has received a massive boost with the return of all-rounder Solomon Mire to the national fold, in time for the upcoming one-day international series at home to Afghanistan. The 27-year-old big hitter last played for Zimbabwe against India at the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup in Auckland, New Zealand, before returning to his base in Australia where he had been starring in club cricket since 2012. But in a major coup for Zimbabwe Cricket, which has been making concerted efforts to bring back lost talent to the national fold, Mire this week committed to playing for his country once again.
“It’s great to be back in red and I’m looking forward to some exciting action,” Mire said. His return was welcomed by Zimbabwe head coach Heath Streak, who revealed he had included the all-rounder in his plans for the five-match ODI series against Afghanistan starting in Harare next week.
“We are excited to have Solomon back in Zimbabwe colours and look forward to his contribution to the team. He will add balance to the team with his all-round ability and his inclusion will definitely strengthen our squad for Afghanistan,” Streak said.
Before going back to Australia where he has featured for the Melbourne Renegades in the Big Bash, Mire had played 10 ODIs for Zimbabwe since making his debut against Bangladesh in November 2014. Meanwhile, the selectors have picked a 14-man squad for the series against Afghanistan. Two more players who impress during this weekend’s domestic provincial one-day competition will be added to the national squad.
ZIMBABWE SQUAD FOR ODI SERIES
Graeme Cremer
Captain
Peter Joseph Moor
Wicketkeeper
Ryan Burl
Tarisai Musakanda
Sikandar Raza
Malcolm Waller
Elton Chigumbura
Wellington Masakadza
Donald Tiripano
Tendai Chatara
Christopher Mpofu
Nathan Waller
Craig Ervine
Solomom Mire