Zimbabwe picks 7 uncapped players in their squad for Afghanistan Tests

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 for Zimbabwean cricket as the nation gears up to host its first Boxing Day Test in 28 years and its inaugural New Year’s Test.

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 Marumani 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.

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 has only participated in Boxing Day Tests abroad, with notable appearances in New Zealand in 2000 and South Africa in 2017.

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.

Zimbabwe Squad for Test Series Against Afghanistan:

Craig Ervine (captain), 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, Newman Nyamhuri, Sikandar Raza, Sean Williams.

With the historic Boxing Day Test and New Year’s Test on the horizon, Zimbabwean fans eagerly await an exciting contest as their team takes on Afghanistan on home soil.