Zimbabwe announce squad for Afghanistan Tests; Brian Bennett named as captain

Zimbabwe Name Brian Bennett Captain for Afghanistan Test Series in Sharjah

Zimbabwe have appointed Brian Bennett captain for their two-Test series against Afghanistan, with the Chevrons set to face a demanding challenge at Sharjah Cricket Stadium in the United Arab Emirates. Bennett steps into the leadership role while regular captain Richard Ngarava continues his recovery from a back injury.

The series offers Zimbabwe a chance to reset after a difficult run in white-ball cricket against Afghanistan. The teams will meet in two five-day matches, scheduled for November 5–9 and November 13–17. Both Tests will be played at the same Sharjah venue.

Zimbabwe seek a response after white-ball defeats

Afghanistan have had the upper hand in the teams’ recent limited-overs meetings. They swept Zimbabwe 3-0 in their T20I series before winning the final of a subsequent tri-series, which also featured Bangladesh, by seven wickets. Those results give Afghanistan momentum heading into the longer format, but Test cricket presents a different test of patience, technique and endurance.

Zimbabwe will be eager to show that their white-ball struggles do not define their Test prospects. The squad includes much of the group that delivered a major result earlier in the year, when Zimbabwe beat Bangladesh by an innings and 85 runs at Harare Sports Club. That performance provides a useful reference point as the side prepares to compete in unfamiliar conditions in the UAE.

The upcoming matches are not part of the 2025–27 ICC World Test Championship cycle. Even so, the series carries importance for Zimbabwe’s development and confidence. Strong performances could help the team build continuity in the format, assess emerging players and establish a platform for future Test assignments.

Bennett takes charge of a varied batting group

Bennett’s first major task as captain will be guiding a batting lineup that combines experienced campaigners with players looking to cement their places. Brendan Taylor and Craig Ervine bring substantial international experience, while Innocent Kaia, Ben Curran, Tadiwanashe Marumani and Wessly Madhevere offer further options across the top and middle order.

That depth gives Zimbabwe several possible combinations, but it also creates a selection challenge. The team will need to identify a reliable opening partnership and ensure the middle order can withstand Afghanistan’s varied bowling attack. In Test cricket, a solid first innings can shape the entire match, particularly when conditions reward discipline and patience.

For Bennett, the captaincy will involve more than choosing a batting order. He will need to manage partnerships, judge when to accelerate and give his bowlers enough time to take 20 wickets. His own contribution with the bat will also matter: a captain who can produce runs under pressure can help steady a side during difficult spells.

Cremer returns as Zimbabwe strengthen their spin options

Veteran leg-spinner Graeme Cremer is included in the Test squad, adding experience to Zimbabwe’s bowling resources. He is joined among the frontline spin options by Vincent Masekesa and Wellington Masakadza. Kundai Matigimu has also returned to the Test group, giving the selectors additional flexibility as they consider the balance of the attack.

Spin could be an important factor over two Tests at Sharjah, where the surface and match conditions may influence how quickly the ball wears. Zimbabwe’s spinners will be expected to build pressure through accurate, sustained spells, while the captain will have to decide how best to combine spin with pace as a match develops.

At the other end, Blessing Muzarabani is expected to lead the pace attack. Brad Evans, Newman Nyamhuri, Matigimu and uncapped seamer Ernest Masuku provide further fast-bowling options. The mix gives Zimbabwe the potential to select an attack suited to the conditions, though the absence of key injured players may limit their depth.

Antum Naqvi cleared to represent Zimbabwe

All-rounder Antum Naqvi has been included after meeting the International Cricket Council’s eligibility requirements to represent Zimbabwe. His availability follows delays involving paperwork. Born in Belgium and raised in Australia, Naqvi’s selection adds another option to the squad and could strengthen its balance if he is chosen for either Test.

His inclusion is one of several notable features of the squad announcement. Zimbabwe have also recalled Matigimu and Masekesa, while Masuku is among the players who could make an impact if given an opportunity. The series therefore offers the team a chance to rely on established performers while continuing to evaluate its wider pool of talent.

Injuries leave gaps in the fast-bowling group

Ngarava remains unavailable as he continues his recovery from a back problem. The left-arm seamer missed Zimbabwe’s recent white-ball matches, including the home ODI series against Australia, and his absence removes an experienced option from the attack. His return will depend on his progress during rehabilitation.

Tanaka Chivanga is also sidelined after suffering an Achilles tendon injury during practice. He missed the Australia series and will not be available against Afghanistan. With both Ngarava and Chivanga out, the responsibility falls on Muzarabani and the other selected seamers to provide sustained pressure and support the spin department.

Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan Test prediction: what to watch

Any prediction for the series will depend on how quickly Zimbabwe adapt to the conditions and whether their batting can deliver consistent first-innings totals. Afghanistan enter with confidence after their recent white-ball success, but the longer format is a separate contest. Zimbabwe’s previous innings victory over Bangladesh suggests they have the ability to produce a strong Test performance when their batting and bowling click together.

Key factors include the opening partnerships, the effectiveness of Zimbabwe’s spin options and how well the seamers manage their workload across five days. Afghanistan’s ability to exploit any early pressure will also be crucial. Rather than relying on recent T20I results alone, the series prediction should account for the different demands of Test cricket and the importance of patience over multiple sessions.

For Zimbabwe, the Sharjah Tests are an opportunity to make a statement under new leadership and regain momentum after a challenging period in white-ball cricket. Bennett’s captaincy, the return of experienced players and the emergence of fresh options could all shape the outcome of a closely watched series.

Zimbabwe Test squad for Afghanistan series

Brian Bennett (captain), Antum Naqvi, Ben Curran, Blessing Muzarabani, Brad Evans, Brendan Taylor, Craig Ervine, Graeme Cremer, Innocent Kaia, Ernest Masuku, Kundai Matigimu, Newman Nyamhuri, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Tafadzwa Tsiga, Vincent Masekesa, Wellington Masakadza and Wessly Madhevere.