Zimbabwe Captain Craig Ervine Ruled Out of ODI Series Against Sri Lanka

Zimbabwe’s regular ODI captain, Craig Ervine, has been ruled out of the upcoming ODI series against Sri Lanka due to a calf injury. The injury, sustained on the eve of the first match, led to Sean Williams stepping in as interim captain. Ervine’s absence is a significant blow to the Zimbabwe squad, given his experience and importance to the batting lineup.

Ervine suffered a Grade II strain in his left calf and a Grade I strain in his right calf, as confirmed by an MRI scan. His career has been marked by periods of absence due to injury, although his most recent missed Test against Ireland in February 2025 was for personal reasons. Ervine’s last ODI appearance was in the series against Ireland.

Despite Ervine’s unavailability, Zimbabwe welcomes the return of Brendan Taylor to international cricket. Taylor, who has been serving a three-year ban for corruption-related offenses, marks his comeback in this series. Taylor, considered one of Zimbabwe’s top batters in the last decade, has a strong record in ODIs, with 11 centuries to his name.

Squads for the First ODI

• Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Nishan Madushka, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka.
• Zimbabwe: Brian Bennett, Ben Curran, Brendan Taylor, Sean Williams (capt.), Sikandar Raza, Wessly Madhevere, Tony Munyonga, Brad Evans, Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani, Trevor Gwandu.