BAN vs ZIM: Mpofu replaces injured Richard Ngarava

Christopher Mpofu will be seen replacing Richard Ngarava in the Zimbabwe's squad for the two-match Test series against Bangladesh

Zimbabwe seam bowler Christopher Mpofu will be seen replacing Richard Ngarava in the Zimbabwe's squad for the two-match Test series against Bangladesh. Ngarava complained of pain in the gluteal region and now it has been confirmed that he sustained a groin injury during the final ODI between Bangladesh and Zimbabwe.

According to Cricbuzz, Zimbabwe national team physiotherapist Anesu Mupotaringa said,” Ngarava sustained a groin injury and also complained of pain in the gluteal region after our last ODI," said. "Even with aggressive treatment, he will not recover in time for the Test series."

The 20-year-old was about to make his debut in the longest format of the game, but will now have to wait for some more time. "Ngarava is part of our plan to deliberately inject youth into the team and he has worked hard on this tour, on the sidelines, readying himself for an opportunity to play," Zimbabwe convener of selectors, Walter Chawaguta, said.

"We had plans to possibly rotate our seamers and rest those who have played all matches since the tour of South Africa and this would have presented an opportunity for Ngarava."

Mpofu, however, might prove to be lethal weapon for his side against the Bangladeshi squad; the 32-year-old seamer has the experience of playing 15 Test matches, since making his debut in Chittagong during Zimbabwe's tour in 2005.

"Mpofu was with the team in the build-up to South Africa and, having toured Bangladesh before, he would know how to quickly adjust to conditions here," Chawaguta said. "He is very experienced and would give us an opportunity to continue with our set plan of rotating our pace bowling department."

Zimbabwe Test Squad: Hamilton Masakadza (C), Brian Chari, Craig Ervine, Brendan Taylor, Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza, Peter Moor, Regis Chakabva, Donald Tiripano, Kyle Jarvis, Brandon Mavuta, John Nyumbu, Wellington Masakadza, Ryan Burl, Tendai Chatara, Christopher Mpofu.