World Cup 2007

Kasteni included by Zimbabwe

Cricinfo staff

February 14, 2007

Friday Kasteni was the only surprise name in Zimbabwe's 15-man squad for the World Cup.

Kasteni, an 18-year-old left-hand batsman, made his debut against Bangladesh last weekend, and while he only made 9, the selectors seem to have been impressed by his A-team performances and even if he does not get a game in the Caribbean, they see him as a player for the future. His inclusion is at the expense of Hamilton Masakadza who made only 42 runs against Bangladesh and was dropped for the last match of the series.

Tawanda Mupariwa, Zimbabwe's leading fast bowler, was included even though he did not play against Bangladesh. He was left out of the tour to Bangladesh last year because of a knee injury but has since recovered. Brendan Taylor, who continues to try the patience of the selectors both on and off the field, was retained even though he made only 23 runs in three matches.

Blessing Mahwire, who was expected to be included, was left out after falling ill with pneumonia, while hard-hitting batsman Charles Coventry ruled himself out of contention after failing to report for camp ahead of the Bangladesh series.

Zimbabwe Squad Prosper Utseya (capt), Gary Brent, Chamu Chibhabha, Elton Chigumbura, Keith Dabengwa, Terry Duffin, Anthony Ireland, Friday Kasteni, Stuart Matsikenyeri, Christopher Mpofu, Tawanda Mupariwa, Ed Rainsford, Vusi Sibanda, Brendan Taylor, Sean Williams.

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