Rogers back in Zimbabwe fold

By Steve Vickers
BBC Sport, Zimbabwe

Barney Rogers was making a mark for himself as one of Zimbabwe's most promising batsmen when the sacking of national team captain Heath Streak led to a damaging rift between players and officials.

Rogers was originally one of the Zimbabwe rebels

The 22-year-old's decision to join Streak's group of white 'rebels' put him out of the game for six months, but he has now decided to come in from the cold.

After signing a contract for the 2004/5 season with the Zimbabwe Cricket Union (ZCU), he is hoping for a place in the squad for the one-day series against England in November.

"It's great to be back. I missed playing the game.

"At one stage it was looking like I'd have to sacrifice my career but cricket is my life, it's the only thing I know how to do," Rogers told BBC Sport.

Rogers and the other 'rebels' went on strike after Streak was stripped of the captaincy, which was handed to wicket-keeper Tatenda Taibu.

The dissenting players accused the ZCU of discriminating against white cricketers and demanded the reinstatement of Streak and changes to the panel of selectors.

A six-month stand-off culminated in an inquiry that cleared the ZCU of racism last week.

By then, however, Rogers had quit the rebel group and was training with the Zimbabwe A team.

Zimbabweans want to see Zimbabwe win, they're not fussed what colour people are playing Barney Rogers

"It was a difficult decision to make, but it's gone now. Things happened quickly when the crisis began, but it was one of those things," he said.

"Other guys decided that Zimbabwe cricket wasn't what they wanted and some signed contracts for county cricket and with Australian teams but I still want to play international cricket.

"At least it's over now and I can move forward."

All-rounder Gavin Ewing has also re-signed with the ZCU, while Charles Coventry, who has yet to play for the senior team, has been offered a contract.

Rogers says they left the rebel group with the blessing of older players such as Streak and Stuart Carlisle.

"They fully understand that we're young and we've got 10 or more years to play, so there's been no problems with them whatsoever."

Rogers has played seven one-day internationals for Zimbabwe and hit two half-centuries against Bangladesh in February.

Heath Streak understands Rogers' decision

He has notched three first-class centuries and his performances in first-class matches and the inter-provincial one-day league in the run-up to the England tour could cement his place.

"I'd love to be there against England, but I've got to make runs in the domestic league.

"There are a lot of other youngsters who'll be fighting for the same place as me so the statistics will talk."

Rogers has yet to make his Test debut but is hoping to be involved when Zimbabwe return to Test action early next year with tours of Bangladesh and South Africa.

And despite the allegations of racism in Zimbabwean cricket, he says his decision to return has been welcomed from all quarters.

Rogers' decision to put his love for cricket first is a welcome development From OB Have your say on TMS

"Zimbabweans want to see Zimbabwe win, they're not fussed what colour people playing are.

"I don't want to be involved in politics, I just want to play my cricket, enjoy myself and do well for Zimbabwe.

"It's a young squad and there's lots and lots of talent. I think it'll take time, but I don't see why we can't pull through."