World Cup team profile: Zimbabwe

World Cup history

Zimbabwe have emerged from the group stage of a World Cup twice in eight appearances and only one of those was a result of their performance. In 2003, Zimbabwe qualified for the Super Sixes because they were awarded points for England's refusal to travel to their country.

In 1999, they beat two major teams to advance, but things have got steadily more difficult for them. At the last event, Zimbabwe's only victories were over Associates and they suffered heavy defeats against Full Members. In total, they have won ten of their 51 World Cup matches.

Best finish: Reached the Super Six stage in 1999 and 2003.

Squad: Elton Chigumbura (capt), Regis Chakabva, Tendai Chatara, Chamu Chibhabha, Craig Ervine, Tafadzwa Kamungozi, Hamilton Masakadza, Stuart Matsikenyeri, Solomon Mire, Tawanda Mupariwa, Tinashe Panyangara, Sikandar Raza, Brendan Taylor (wk), Prosper Utseya, Sean Williams

Key Batsman: Brendan Taylor. Taylor's reputation is born of temperament over technique. He can build on the smallest of foundations, can bat Zimbabwe out of crisis and anchor an innings. With two World Cups behind him and two World Cup half-centuries to his name, his experience adds to the think tank. He has scored 4825 runs in 161 ODI matches.

Key Bowler: Tinashe Panyangara will be relied upon to bowl at the most crucial time innings, wuth the new ball and at the death. He has taken 41 wickets in 38 ODI's and has a reasonable economy rate of 5.71 runs to the over.

Drinks carrier: Stuart Matsikenyeri. Although he has been brought back into the team after playing his last ODI three years ago, the right-handed batsman will struggle to force his way into the starting XI.

Kit colour: Red

Injury concerns: No injury concerns

Fixtures: February 15 – v South Africa, Hamilton

February 19 – v UAE, Nelson

February 24 – v West Indies, Canberra

March 1 – v Pakistan, Brisbane

March 7 – v Ireland, Hobart

March 14 – v India, Auckland