(Reuters) – Zimbabwe will not have several senior players in their away series against Afghanistan in the United Arab Emirates, but batsman Wesley Madhevere sees it as an opportunity for young players like him to prove their credentials.
World-class vaccines Brendan Taylor and Craig Ervine, along with sailor Kyle Jarvis, have been left out due to illness – joining injured heart controller Tendai Chatara on the sideline.
Exhausted Zimbabwe will meet Afghanistan today for the first game of the two-test series in Abu Dhabi, where they will also play three Twenty20 internationals later this month.
“There are some older players missing (which) could be a disadvantage, but it’s an opportunity for the younger lads to learn and grow on the international stage,” Madhevere told Reuters ahead of his first test appearance.
“It’s going to take a lot for the younger generation to make a statement … (but) this is a perfect opportunity to improve your game and showcase your talent.”
The 20-year-old practiced his skills abroad as a high school student in South Africa. Having made his one-day international debut in Bangladesh last year, he was the first Zimbabwean youth since 2006 to score a half century in the format. Subsequent fifties against Pakistan, struck with the fluency and tenacity of an experienced veteran, reinforced Madhevere’s position as his side’s most promising young player.
“I know there’s a lot of expectation exactly what I’ve done in the shorter versions, but I’m going to use that as my motivation to keep doing good,” he said middle order batsman.
Zimbabwe have remembered batters Ryan Burl and Tarisai Musakanda, both 26, who, along with fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani, 24, will be hopeful of adding to their lone test cap.
Sikandar Raza, all-rounder and skipper Sean Williams will serve as experienced hands, but with Zimbabwean’s nerves approaching retirement age this tour will offer an insight into the side’s future.
In their favor is Afghanistan’s own inexperience, having only played four tests since achieving red ball status in 2017.
A finger injury on Rashid Khan’s bowling hand casts doubt on his country’s first-ever test against Zimbabwe, but his ability to shape the overall series remains a threat.
“He is probably one of the best leg-spinners in the world. We’ve all seen the impact it has had over a couple of years, ”said Madhevere.
“If we just follow our process, I feel we will be able to meet the challenges.”