Table of Contents
Zimbabwe have announced their 17-member squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against Afghanistan, set to begin on December 26. This series marks a historic milestone fꦫor Zimbabwean cricket as the nation gears up to host its first Boxing Day Test in 28 years and its inaugural New Yeಌar’s Test.
Craig Ervine to lead the Zimbabwe Test squad
Veteran batter Craig Ervine will lead the side, which includes seven uncapped players. The newcomers are opening batter Ben Curran, middle-order batter Johnathan Campbell, wicketkeeper-batters Tadiwanashe Maru♚mani and Nyasha Mayavo, and pace bowlers Trevor Gwandu, Takudzwa Chataira, and Newman Nyamhuri. Their inclusion highlights Zimbabwe’s focus on nurturing young talent while balancing the squad with experienced players.
First Boxing Day Test for Zimbabwe on home soil since 1996
The first Test will be played at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo from December 26, followed by the New Year’s Test scheduled to begin on January 2, 2025. This series also marks Zimbabwe’s return to hosting a Boxing Day Test at home for the first time since 1996, when they faced England. Over the years, Zimbabwe have only participated in Boxing Day Tests abroad, with notable appearances in New Zealand in 2000 and South Africa in 2017.
Also READ: Afghanistan records a thumping win𒉰 over Zimba✱bwe in 2nd ODI
Zimbabwe’s squad features a mix of seasoned players like Sikandar Raza, Sean Williams and Blessing Muzarabani, alongside promising new talents. The blend of experience and youth is expected to provide a strong foundation for the home side as they aim to make the most of the historic occasion.
Afghanistan announced their Test squad for the upcoming series on Monday (December 16), marking the return of star leg-spinner Rashid Kha🥀n.
Zimbabwe’s squad for the Test series against Afghanistan
Craig Ervine (c), Ben Curran, Brian Bennett, Johnathan Campbell, Takudzwa Chataira, Joylord Gumbie, Trevor Gwandu, Takudzwanashe Kaitano, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Brandon Mavuta, Nyasha Mayavo, Blessing Muzarabani, Dion Myers, Richard Ngarava, Newmꦰan Nyamhuri, Sikandar Raza, Sean Williams.
