Prince Masvaure named in Zimbabwe's Test squad to face New Zealand

Zimbabwe have announced a 16-member squad for the two-match Test series against New Zealand, starting on Thursday (July 28) in Bulawayo. Graeme Cremer, the legspinner, has been appointed as the captain of the national set-up for the series. Cremer recently led the side against India in the abridged versions of the game.

Prince Masvaure, who plays for Mid West Rhinos in Zimbabwe's premier four-day competition, has been picked for the first time. The uncapped batting all-rounder has amassed 2,688 runs at an average of 25.12 in 63 first-class games. He has snared 57 wickets as well. Incidentally, four members of the squad are yet to play Test cricket. Vusi Sibanda, the experienced opening batsman, has been left out of the squad.

New Zealand last played a Test against Zimbabwe in Napier back in January 2012, which the tourists won by an innings and 301 runs. Moreover, Zimbabwe haven't played a Test since they clashed against Bangladesh in a three-match series in 2014.
 
After a week-long camp in Pretoria, New Zealand touched down in Harare on July 20. They will take on Zimbabwe 'A' in a three-day warm-up match at Harare Sports Club before playing the first of the two Tests in Bulawayo.

Squad: Graeme Cremer (c), Sikandar Raza Butt, Regis Chakabva, Brian Chari, Tendai Chatara, Chamunorwa Chibhabha, Craig Ervine, Hamilton Masakadza, Prince Masvaure, Tinotenda Mawoyo, Peter Joseph Moor, Richmond Mutumbami, Taurai Muzarabani, Njabulo Ncube, Donald Tiripano, Sean Williams.