The two-match Test series between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan will begin on November 5 in Sharjah, UAE. Regular captain Richard Ngarava has been ruled out of the squad as he continues to recover from a back injury. In his absence, young batter Brian Bennett will lead the side. At just 22, Bennett faces a significant responsibility as he takes charge of the national team.
The most notable development in Zimbabwe's squad is the return of Graeme Cremer. The 40-year-old leg-spinner last played a Test match against South Africa in December 2017. He has remained away from the longest format since then, but has now earned a place in the Test squad after an absence of almost nine years. Cremer has also been part of Zimbabwe's limited-overs teams in recent times. His experience of living in the UAE could prove useful during the upcoming series.
Antum Naqvi's inclusion is another major development for Zimbabwe cricket. Born in Belgium and of Pakistani origin, Naqvi has been playing cricket in Zimbabwe since 2023. However, his international debut had been repeatedly delayed because the necessary formalities under ICC eligibility regulations had not been completed. Zimbabwe Cricket has now confirmed that he has received clearance to represent the country.
Naqvi has an impressive record in domestic cricket. He has scored 1,448 runs in 24 first-class matches at an average of 60.35, including six centuries and eight half-centuries. In 2024, playing for the Mid West Rhinos, he scored an unbeaten 300 against the Tuskers. He became the first batter to score a triple century for any Zimbabwe team. He has also taken 62 wickets in first-class cricket, demonstrating his contribution as an all-rounder.
Zimbabwe's 17-member squad also features experienced players, including former captain Brendan Taylor and Craig Ervine. Taylor's inclusion comes after he surpassed Andy Flower to become Zimbabwe's leading run-scorer in ODI cricket. The pace attack will be led by bowlers such as Blessing Muzarabani and Brad Evans.
Tanaka Chivanga has missed selection because of injury. Meanwhile, Kundai Matigimu and Vincent Masekesa have returned to the Test squad.
Zimbabwe's 17-member squad for the Test series against Afghanistan comprises Brian Bennett (captain), Antum Naqvi, Ben Curran, Blessing Muzarabani, Brad Evans, Brendan Taylor, Craig Ervine, Graeme Cremer, Innocent Kaia, Ernest Masuku, Kundai Matigimu, Newman Nyamhuri, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Tafadzwa Tsiga, Vincent Masekesa, Wellington Masakadza and Wesley Madhevere.
With Cremer's return, Naqvi's long-awaited international eligibility and Bennett's appointment as captain, Zimbabwe will enter the two-Test series with a combination of experienced players and new leadership. The opening match against Afghanistan is scheduled to begin in Sharjah on November 5.
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