In a significant move, Sikandar Raza has been named as the new T20I captain for Zimbabwe, replacing former captain Craig Ervine. The announcement was confirmed by Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) after a meeting in Victoria Falls.

Sikandar Raza was named Zimbabwe T20I captain by Zimbabwe Cricket as the board announced the results of the meeting on Saturday (November 4).

Raza's appointment comes ahead of next month's T20 World Cup qualifiers as Zimbabwe aim to progress to the showpiece tournament in the US and the Caribbean next year. Veteran Craig Ervine, who has been a leader in all formats, will now lead only the Test and ODI squads.

This decision came after Zimbabwe's disappointing 3-2 series defeat against Namibia. Following this defeat, there was reportedly dissatisfaction with Ervine's leadership, leading to his removal as captain and the appointment of Sikandar Raza as his successor.

The board have also decided to retain Dave Houghton as head coach to keep an eye on the qualifiers and have also included him on the selection committee, with David Mutendra remaining chairman. Former captain Elton Chigumbura was also added as a third member of the panel.

Blessing Ngondo has been appointed as the new chairman of the cricket committee; other members include Hamilton Masakadza, Kenyon Ziehl, Russell Tiffin, Julia Chibhabha, Houghton and Chigumbura. Although there are no changes to the women's cricket setup, the board has announced that there will be a review after the ICC Women's T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier.