Star England cricketer to play for Zimbabwe, released from Yorkshire’s contract

Former England cricketer Gary Ballance is set to play for Zimbabwe, the country of his birth. In a statement issued by Zimbabwe Cricket, it has confirmed that the left-hander has been released by Yorkshire cricket. For the unversed, Ballance has played 23 Tests and 16 ODIs including the 2014 Test series against India, in which he scored more than 500 runs. Also, he got into trouble after using racist terms against Azeem Rafiq.

Meanwhile, after the announcement of Gary’s involvement with Zimbabwe, ZC Director of Cricket Hamilton Masakadza said that the team is elated to have a player such as him. The former Zimbabwe player added that Gary is a great addition to the country’s national and domestic cricket.

“We are elated to have Gary, an immensely talented and experienced cricketer, back home where it all started for him.

“He is a great addition to our domestic and international set-up and we are looking forward to him making a massive difference for us.”

The player himself said he was excited to get the opportunity to represent Zimbabwe.

I am thrilled to join Zimbabwe Cricket: Gary Ballance

Ballance was meant to play for Yorkshire till the 2024 season. However, after a mutual agreement between the club and him, the contract has been ended. Meanwhile, after becoming eligible to play for Zimbabwe, he said that he is thrilled to play for the Southern Africans. The former Zimbabwe U19 player added that the opportunity has given him a newfound passion and excitement for the game.

“I’m thrilled to be joining Zimbabwe Cricket and can’t wait to start work with some great coaches and talented players,” Ballance said.

“The opportunity to represent Zimbabwe has given me a new-found passion and excitement for the game.

“I have kept in touch with a number of people within Zimbabwe cricket over the years and it has been great to watch their recent progress especially.”