Zimbabwe's preparations for their eagerly awaited ODI return have suffered a significant blow, after the wicket-taking Oskers captain, Craig Ervine's, exit from the continuing Sri Lanka series. In the build-up to the first match in Harare, the experienced left-handed batsman had to bow out of the series after suffering an injury to the back of his calf.

Medical scans have indicated the full extent of the damage that was done, as it was established that the 40-year-old sustained a Grade II strain in the left calf, while the scans also showed a chronic and resolving Grade I strain in the right calf. With the scans ruling him out of competing in the ODI contest of 2 matches, the selectors will now have to turn to seasoned all-rounder Sean Williams to lead the team in the absence of the captain, Ervine.

Ervine's absence is a major loss for Zimbabwe, purely based on experience, and considering Ervine was in good form in his past few 50-over matches. His calmness at the top of the order and presence amongst younger players will be missed, and he finds the shaky home side up against a formidable Sri Lankan unit. Williams will have experience to draw upon for captaincy duties and will again be steadfast with a young team competing on Zimbabwe soil.

ALSO SEE: RCB dominate brand value charts as IPL 2025 winners

Focus Shifts to T20I Series After ODIs

Adding further intrigue to the series is the highly anticipated return of Brendon Taylor, who has returned to international cricket close to four years since his last international appearance. A seasoned campaigner and a proven batsman, Taylor had previously played for Zimbabwe in September 2021 against Ireland, and his positive presence will provide vital experience and a protagonist in the middle order. Taylor's return has already sparked tremendous enthusiasm amongst fans who are excited to see him back in the national colors.

This ODI series will also be Zimbabwe's first limited-overs arrangement since their home Tests against South Africa and New Zealand, along with the T20I tri-series earlier this year. With a transitional squad moving between experienced players and new faces, Zimbabwe will use this series to build momentum before the T20I leg of the tour.

The first ODI is on today (29 August) at Harare Sports Club, and the second and final ODI is on 31 August, where he would wish to get some form back before all focus is on the three-match T20I series, where Zimbabwe will hope to challenge their captain's absence and give the tourists a good fight.