Chris Mpofu injured for New Zealand series

Zimbabwean pacer, Chris Mpofu has been deemed unfit for his side’s trip to New Zealand following an injury to his lower back. The national team selectors announced a 20 – men squad which will be training for their assignments Down Under, and while it includes many players making a comeback due to respective injuries, the only main absentee for the Rhodesians remain the unavailability of Mpofu, who is expected to wait on the sidelines after recurring pain to his lower back as confirmed by team physio. "Unfortunately Chris's lower back pain has recurred on the eve of the start of the camp," said national team physiotherapist Amato Machikicho. "He had an MRI scan and an opinion from a specialist sports physician. As a result Chris will no longer be a part of the camp and will miss the tour."

The 20-men squad is mainly comprised of players, who played for the national team in their last home bout against the Kiwis. The Rhodesian lost the two T20s by convincing margins but gradually improved in the 50-over format despite losing the series 2-1. Also the Only Test played between the two sides saw the Black Caps emerging victorious edging narrowly by 34 runs. Now the Zimbabwean will travel in a reversal of the same fixtures which will see them playing One Test before battling in 3 ODIs and 2 T20s. In addition they will have a three-day practice match which will commence on 21 January. The players making a return after injury include pacers Brian Vitori and Shingi Masakadza while there is added spin option in Graeme Cremer and Stuart Matsikenyeri. Skipper Brendan Taylor will not train with the camp due to his commitment with Wellington team in the HRV Cup. Head coach, Alan Butcher was disappointed to lose Mpofu through injury. "Not having Chris Mpofu is quite a blow - he has been consistent in the last couple of months," he said. "We have [Brian] Vitori back and look to compete at a level footing so are not a depleted side at all." Squad: Brendan Taylor, Regis Chakabva, Tendai Chatara, Chamunorwa Chibhabha, Elton Chigumbura, Graeme Cremer, Kyle Jarvis, Hamilton Masakadza, Shingirai Masakadza, Stuart Matsikenyeri, Tinotenda Mawoyo, Keegan Meth, Forster Mutizwa, Njabulo Ncube, Raymond Price, Vusimuzi Sibanda, Tatenda Taibu, Prosper Utseya, Brian Vitori, Malcolm Waller.