ZIMBABWE will this week begin a month-long tour in the Caribbean where they are expected to play West Indies in their first full series in a decade.

Zimbabwe begins their tour with a warm-up game on February 20 and will conclude with the Test match that is set to finish on March 24.

In an interview with Standardsport, national team assistant coach Steve Mangongo said his charges would have to stick to the basics if they are to compete at the highest level.

"Our main focus in the last two weeks was on the basic drills, which I believe if implemented during game time, will see the team being able to compete at the highest level and bring results," he said.

Zimbabwe left yesterday without their captain Brandon Taylor due to an illness. Taylor will have to undergo a late fitness test and possibly follow the team after the test. Also out of the team are batting coach Grant Flower, fitness trainer Lorraine Chivandire and bowling coach Heath Streak following Zimbabwe cricket's decision to cut coaching staff.

ODI and T20 squad:

Brendan Taylor (captain), Hamilton Masakadza, Vusi sibanda, Tino Mawoyo, Kyle Jarvis, Tendai Chatara, Chris Mpofu, Prosper Utseya, Regis Chakabva, Malcom Waller, Keegan Meth, Craig Ervine, Chamu Chibhabha, Tino Mutombodzi and Natsai Mushangwe

Test squad:

Brandon Taylor, Tino Mawoyo, Vusi Sibanda, Hamilton Masakadza, Regis Chakabva, Malcom Waller, Kyle Jarvis, Keegan Meth, Tendai Chatara, Chris Mpofu, Prosper Utseya, Sean Williams, Tincern Maruma, Raymond Price, Graeme Cremer.