Captain Nomvelo Sibanda is set to lead Zimbabwe Women on their historic first tour in the ICC Women’s Championship,
The left-arm seamer will captain a 15-member squad for the tour of New Zealand, which begins with a three-match T20 International series against New Zealand Women at Seddon Park on 25 and 27 February and 1 March.
The teams will then contest three One-Day Internationals at the University of Otago Oval on 5, 8 and 11 March, with the ODIs forming part of the 2025–2029 Championship cycle.
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Sibanda’s appointment reflects her growing importance within the side, having established herself as a key figure in Zimbabwe’s pace attack. She leads a squad that blends experience and emerging talent, with senior players such as Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano and Modester Mupachikwa expected to provide stability, while all-rounders Josephine Nkomo, Loreen Tshuma and Christabel Chatonzwa offer balance.
The tour is a significant moment for Zimbabwe Women, who secured their place in the Championship following the competition’s expansion from 10 to 11 teams in November 2024. The Championship serves as the main qualification pathway for the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2029, placing Zimbabwe on the global stage alongside the world’s leading teams.
Fans have welcomed Sibanda’s leadership with optimism and pride. “It’s a big moment for her and for Zimbabwe cricket,” Sthabile Njubabe on facebooke. “She has worked her way into the team and now she gets the chance to lead at the highest level.”
Another fan Thandolwenkosi commented on X saying “We know New Zealand will be tough, but having Nomvelo as captain gives the team belief. This is a historic tour and we are proud of her.”
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