Stuart Matsikenyeri

Zimbabwe has left opening batsman Vusi Sibanda out of its squad to tour New Zealand after he was embroiled in a spat with the country's cricket authorities.

Zimbabwe won the toss and elected to bat first against South Africa in the first ODI on Wednesday at Queens Sports Club at Bulwayo in Zimbabwe.

South African Justin Sammons has been appointed as Zimbabwe's head coach for the senior men's national cricket team. He will make his debut in a Twenty20 international series against India from July 6-14. Zimbabwe Cricket chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani expressed enthusiasm for the appointment, citing Sammons' extensive coaching experience and talent development skills.

Zimbabwe all-rounder Elton Chigumbura scored 79 and claimed two wickets to lead his team to a 109-run win over Kenya in the first of a five-match limited-overs series.

Team India faces Zimbabwe in a crucial Super 8 match. Zimbabwe's surprising run in the T20 World Cup 2026 has been shaped by Indian-origin coach Rivash Gobind. He helped build a strong team culture and implement a professional approach. Zimbabwe's journey involved overcoming past failures and focusing on player development.