The three-match T20I series between Scotland and Zimbabwe will get underway on 15 September, at the Grange Cricket Club, Edinburgh.
Zimbabwe lost the final ODI against Ireland less than 48 hours ago. Scotland, on the other hand, last played against the Netherlands in May, where they had a six-wicket win in a 50-over contest.
Zimbabwe will be without Brendan Taylor, who bid goodbye to international cricket after the Ireland tour. Regis Chakabva, who had a disappointing outing against Ireland in both T20Is and ODIs, will be looking to regain his form. Craig Ervine and Blessing Muzarabani will be key for them again.
From Scotland’s perspective, the Zimbabwe series will be part of their preparations for the upcoming T20 World Cup, starting next month in Oman and the UAE. They will be heavily reliant on Kyle Coetzer and Richard Berrington, while Josh Davey and Bradley Wheal are not going to take part due to County commitments.
The two sides last met in the 20-over format during the T20 World Cup in 2016. Riding on Sean Williams 36-ball 53, Zimbabwe posted 147/7 after opting to bat. In reply, Scotland were skittled out for 136 in 19.4 overs, with Wellington Masakadza returning 4-28.
Betway Fantasy Tips
– Bet on Zimbabwe. Ervine has been in excellent form. Appoint him captain.
– Include both Chakabva and Matthew Cross among wicket-keepers.
– Richie Berrington can be a safe vice-captain option. He can produce good value with both bat and ball.
Probable XIs
Scotland: Kyle Coetzer (c), Matthew Cross (wk), Calum MacLeod, Richie Berrington, George Munsey, Dylan Budge, Michael Leask, Mark Watt, Gavin Main, Alasdair Evans, Adrian Neill.
Zimbabwe: Craig Ervine (c), Regis Chakabva (wk), Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wesley Madhevere, Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza, Ryan Burl, Luke Jongwe, Wellington Masakadza, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava.
Prediction
Zimbabwe should win this contest.
Blitzpools Fantasy Team
Craig Ervine (C), Richie Berrington (VC), Matthew Cross, Regis Chakabva, George Munsey, Kyle Coetzer, Wesley Madhevere, Sean Williams, Blessing Muzarabani, Luke Jongwe, Alasdair Evans.
