By Zim Sport Live Writer
Zimbabwe head coach Justin Sammons has clarified the absence of highly-rated all-rounder Antum Naqvi from the national team, revealing that the in-form batter is still awaiting clearance from the International Cricket Council (ICC) before he can represent the country.
Naqvi’s omission from Zimbabwe’s squad for the one-off Test against Bangladesh has sparked questions among fans, especially after the Belgium-born, Australia-raised all-rounder continued his impressive run of form by smashing an unbeaten century for Zimbabwe A against Bangladesh A in Sylhet.
The 26-year-old has also been one of the standout performers in Zimbabwe’s domestic circuit, strengthening calls for his inclusion in the senior side.
However, Sammons stressed that the selectors’ hands are tied until the ICC completes Naqvi’s eligibility process.
“I think it’s important for people to understand that he is not yet eligible to play for Zimbabwe,” Sammons said.
“He’s still waiting for clearance from the ICC. His final papers and clearance have to come from the ICC, and he needs to meet a few requirements around that, so we are still waiting for that.”
While acknowledging Naqvi’s outstanding performances, Sammons said form alone cannot fast-track his selection.
“Granted, he has obviously done well domestically, but we can’t pick him just yet.»
“It doesn’t matter how well he does, until he gets those final papers from the ICC, we can’t pick him in the national team.”
Naqvi’s latest century for Zimbabwe A has only heightened anticipation over his international debut, with the talented top-order batter widely expected to bolster Zimbabwe’s batting once his eligibility is formally approved.