teams-zi sport cricket-world-cup Virgin Media
Traditionally a side that over-perform in the World Cup, Zimbabwe have made the second round of the last two tournaments. However the last four years have seen them drop into a labyrinthine turmoil from which they will struggle to escape. Selection issues have dominated the headlines, and have seen a number of young pretenders thrown into the fold with little success. As a result they have ceased playing Test matches of late and have only taken on Bangladesh in home and away ODI series as they attempt to rebuild. World Cup 2007 sees them grouped with the hosts West Indies as well as Pakistan and Ireland, and it is unlikely that they will repeat their previous heroics of overcoming fancied opposition to progress. Indeed Ireland might fancy their chances.
Prosper Utseya has stepped into the void left by previous captain Tatenda Taibu but has understandably struggled. A useful off-spinner with a fair amount of talent, his appointment as captain surprised many given his inexperience and young age - he is still only 21. The World Cup will be his first chance to make a name for himself on the big stage, though the task facing him is an unenviable one.
At 31, Gary Brent is easily the most experienced player in the Zimbabwe side but has had a stop-start career since making his debut at the age of 20. While the side do have some promising young batsmen coming through their ranks, their bowlers have been erratic and so Brent's contribution is likely to be crucial to the cause.
Brendan Taylor has made a steady rise in international cricket since making his debut two years ago at the age of 18. A solid wicketkeeper who rarely lets his side down, Taylor has also been the most consistent of the emerging Zimbabwe batsmen and seems to have the head for the big game.
Should overcome Ireland, but won't get beyond the group stage.
