Zimbabwe has appointed 22-year-old Brian Bennett as captain for its two-match Test series against Afghanistan. The series began at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium in the United Arab Emirates, with Bennett taking charge in the absence of regular captain Richard Ngarava.
Ngarava is currently recovering from a back injury and is unavailable for the series. Bennett’s appointment makes him the 15th Test captain in Zimbabwe’s cricket history.
The Zimbabwe squad includes most of the players who helped the team achieve its biggest-ever Test victory against Bangladesh earlier this year. However, fast bowler Tanaka Chivanga has been ruled out because of an injury.
Experienced fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani will lead Zimbabwe’s pace attack. He will receive support from Brad Evans, Newman Nyamhuri, Matigimu and uncapped fast bowler Ernest Masuku.
One of the major talking points is the Test debut of Antum Naqvi, a Belgium-born all-rounder with Indian and Pakistani heritage. Naqvi became eligible to represent Zimbabwe after meeting the International Cricket Council’s requirements.
Naqvi previously played cricket in Australia before former Zimbabwe player Solomon Mire encouraged him to represent Zimbabwe. He made an impressive start to his first-class career in 2023, scoring an unbeaten 140 for Mid West Rhinos on his debut.
Bennett won the toss and decided to bat first against Afghanistan. Zimbabwe made a positive start and reached 104 for one at lunch. Ben Curran was unbeaten on 39, while Brendan Taylor was not out on 25. Innocent Kaia was the only Zimbabwe batter dismissed, scoring 34 runs.
The match provides Zimbabwe with an opportunity to continue its recent strong performances in Test cricket. Afghanistan, meanwhile, will look to challenge Zimbabwe with its experienced batting and bowling players.
Afghanistan Team
Sediqullah Atal, Abdul Malik, Shahidullah Kamal, Rahmat Shah (captain), Hashmatullah Shahidi, Ikram Alikhil (wicketkeeper), Rahmanullah, Qais Ahmad, Zia-ur-Rehman Akbar, Zia Ur Rahman Sharifi and Mohammad Saleem Safi.
Zimbabwe Team
Ben Curran, Innocent Kaia, Brian Bennett (captain), Brendan Taylor, Craig Ervine, Antum Naqvi, Wessly Madhevere, Tafadzwa Tsiga (wicketkeeper), Graeme Cremer, Newman Nyamhuri and Blessing Muzarabani.