Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) has officially unveiled its 16-member squad for the much-anticipated two-Test series against newly crowned ICC World Test Champions South Africa. The series is scheduled to begin on June 28 at the iconic Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, where Zimbabwe will be hoping to make a strong impression on home turf. The second Test will follow shortly after, running from July 6 to 10 at the same venue.
Coming off a historic one-off Test against England at Trent Bridge, the Zimbabwean side will look to capitalize on the momentum and experience gained in English conditions. While the Proteas are brimming with confidence following their sensational WTC final win over Australia at Lord’s, Zimbabwe are expected to mount a spirited challenge in front of an enthusiastic home crowd.
Ben Curran, Richard Ngarva missed out due to injuries
The selectors have been forced to make several key changes due to injuries and tactical decisions. Left-arm pacer Richard Ngarava has been ruled out due to a lower back injury, while top-order batter Ben Curran is sidelined with a fractured finger. Curran sustained the injury earlier this month, during South Africa’s warm-up match against Zimbabwe at Arundel, which was held as preparation for the WTC final. In a strategic move, Victor Nyauchi has been omitted from the squad to explore alternative bowling options.
Meanwhile, Kundai Matigimu, a promising right-arm pacer, has earned his maiden Test call-up, adding fresh firepower to the pace department. His inclusion reflects Zimbabwe’s commitment to nurturing young talent and expanding their bowling resources.
Key players return as Zimbabwe reinforce their red-ball unit
There’s good news for Zimbabwe fans as several experienced names return to the fold. Top-order batters Prince Masvaure and Takudzwanashe Kaitano have been recalled to provide solidity and depth to the batting line-up. Leg-spinner Vincent Masekesa also returns, offering variety in the spin department.
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The pace attack has received a timely boost with the comeback of Trevor Gwandu, who has successfully recovered from the groin injury that curtailed his England tour. In the bowling ranks, all eyes will be on Blessing Muzarabani, Zimbabwe’s spearhead who is fresh off his IPL stint with IPL 2025 champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).
Veteran Sean Williams will continue to bring experience and calm to the middle order, while young gun Brian Bennett – who recently blasted Zimbabwe’s fastest-ever Test century at Trent Bridge – is expected to play a crucial role in countering South Africa’s potent bowling line-up.
Zimbabwe squad for South Africa Test series: Craig Ervine (c), 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
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