Zimbabwe has announced its squad for a landmark two-match Test series against Afghanistan, featuring the first home Boxing Day Test in 28 years and the inaugural New Year’s Test. Captain Craig Ervine leads a mix of experienced players and new talent, as the team prepares for the historic fixtures that commence on December 26, 2023.
Zimbabwe’s cricket team has announced its squad for a momentous two-match Test series against Afghanistan, which represents a significant milestone for the nation. The matches will feature Zimbabwe’s inaugural home Boxing Day Test in 28 years, as well as the country’s first New Year’s Test. The squad includes several uncapped players, among them opening batter Ben Curran, middle-order batter Johnathan Campbell, and wicketkeeper-batters Tadiwanashe Marumani and Nyasha Mayavo, alongside pace bowlers Trevor Gwandu, Takudzwa Chataira, and Newman Nyamhuri.
Veteran Craig Ervine will captain the squad, supported by experienced players such as Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza, Blessing Muzarabani, and Richard Ngarava. The full squad comprises 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, and Sean Williams.
The first Test will take place from December 26 to 30, 2023, at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, followed by the first-ever New Year’s Test for Zimbabwe from January 2 to 6, 2024. This series is particularly noteworthy as it signifies Zimbabwe’s return to Boxing Day Test cricket after their last home Boxing Day fixture, a rain-interrupted draw against England in 1996. Since then, Zimbabwe has only competed in Boxing Day Tests abroad, in 2000 against New Zealand and in 2017 against South Africa, the latter being a pink-ball day-night Test.
The upcoming Test series between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan is of historic importance, as it marks Zimbabwe’s first time hosting a Boxing Day Test match at home since 1996. This long-awaited return to playing Tests during the festive season is seen as an opportunity for the nation to rejuvenate its cricketing legacy. The inclusion of uncapped players in the squad indicates a focus on nurturing new talent while also relying on the expertise of seasoned players. The match scheduled dates are strategically set for critical holiday periods, enhancing the cricketing spirit within Zimbabwean communities.
In conclusion, Zimbabwe’s unveiling of their squad for the historic Test series against Afghanistan highlights a momentous occasion in the nation’s cricketing journey. This series not only boasts the first Boxing Day Test at home in 28 years but also introduces Zimbabwe’s inaugural New Year’s Test. The blend of experienced players and fresh talent encapsulates Zimbabwe’s aspirations for cricketing excellence as it prepares to embark on this significant challenge against Afghanistan.
Original Source: www.icc-cricket.com
