Zim Names Squad for Test Series Against World Cham...

Zim Names Squad for Test Series Against World Champions SA

Witness Runodada- Zim Now Reporter

Zimbabwe Cricket has announced a 16-man squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against newly crowned ICC World Test Champions, South Africa.

The red-ball showdown is set to begin on June 28 at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, with the second Test scheduled from July 6 to 10, promising an exciting fortnight of cricket action.

Zimbabwe will be led by captain Craig Ervine as the team looks to build on the positives from their recent tour of England, which featured a historic one-off Test match at Trent Bridge.

However, Zimbabwe will be without left-arm pacer Richard Ngarava, who is nursing a lower back injury, and top-order batter Ben Curran, who has been ruled out due to a fractured finger.

Meanwhile, Victor Nyauchi has not been included, with selectors citing tactical reasons.

“Richard Ngarava (lower back injury) and Ben Curran (finger fracture) are unavailable due to injury, while Victor Nyauchi has been left out for tactical reasons,” said the selectors.

Among the notable inclusions is uncapped paceman Kundai Matigimu, who earns his first Test call-up. The top order sees the return of Prince Masvaure and Takudzwanashe Kaitano, both of whom bring experience and stability. Leg-spinner Vincent Masekesa has also been recalled, adding variety to the spin options.

Fast bowler Trevor Gwandu returns to the side after recovering from the groin injury that cut short his tour of England.

He joins a pace attack led by Blessing Muzarabani, who comes into the series in top form. Muzarabani recently became the joint-fastest Zimbabwean to reach 50 Test wickets and has been turning heads following his stint with IPL champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

In the middle order, Zimbabwe will rely on the experience of Sean Williams to anchor the innings, while young star Brian Bennett will be looking to continue his fine form.

South Africa arrive in Zimbabwe with momentum on their side after defeating Australia in the World Test Championship final at Lord’s. However, with home support and renewed belief, Zimbabwe will be determined to rise to the occasion and challenge the world champions in what could be a defining series for their red-ball future.

Zimbabwe Test Squad to Face South Africa:
Craig Ervine (Captain), Brian Bennett, Tanaka Chivanga, Trevor Gwandu, Takudzwanashe Kaitano, Wessly Madhevere, Clive Madande, Vincent Masekesa, Wellington Masakadza, Prince Masvaure, Kundai Matigimu, Blessing Muzarabani, Newman Nyamhuri, Tafadzwa Tsiga, Nicholas Welch, Sean Williams.