Pak-born Raza in Zimbabwe squad for India series

Pakistan-born cricketer Sikander Raza, who recently made his debut against Bangladesh in a home series, has been named in the 16-member Zimbabwe squad, led by Brendon Taylor that will take on India in a five match ODI series starting July 24, in Harare.

Born in Sialkot in the northeast of Pakistan, Raza along with his parents has been residing here since 2002. He made his first-class debut in 2007.

A top-order batsman, he returned to full-time cricket after completing his academics in the 2010-11 season and scored 625 runs at an healthy average of 41.

Pacers Shingi Masakadza and Tinashe Panyangara have been dropped from the squad announced for the home series against Bangladesh in May.

Zimbabwe have dropped wicketkeeper Regis Chakabva and skipper Taylor will keep wickets for the side.

The squad features five seamers, including Kyle Jarvis, Tendai Chatara, Brian Vitori, Elton Chigumbura and the uncapped Michael Chinouya.

Zimbabwe squad: Brendan Taylor (capt & wk), Sikandar Raza, Tendai Chatara, Michael Chinouya, Elton Chigumbura, Graeme Cremer, Kyle Jarvis, Timycen Maruma, Hamilton Masakadza, Natsai M'shangwe, Tinotenda Mutombodzi, Vusimuzi Sibanda, Prosper Utseya, Brian Vitori, Malcolm Waller, Sean Williams.