Zimbabwe has announced its squad for the historic two-match Test series against Afghanistan, marking the first Boxing Day Test at home in 28 years and the inaugural New Year’s Test. The squad includes a mix of uncapped players and experienced veterans, with Craig Ervine as captain. The series is set to begin from December 26 to 30 at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo.
Zimbabwe has officially announced its squad for the eagerly awaited two-match Test series against Afghanistan. This series is particularly historic, as it will feature Zimbabwe’s first Boxing Day Test on home soil in 28 years, as well as the nation’s inaugural New Year’s Test. Among the notable inclusions in the squad are uncapped players such as 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 is appointed captain and will lead a squad that boasts experience with established players including Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza, Blessing Muzarabani, and Richard Ngarava.
The first Test match is scheduled from December 26 to 30 at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. Following this, Zimbabwe will also prepare for its first New Year’s Test, occurring from January 2 to 6, 2024. This series is particularly notable as it marks Zimbabwe’s return to playing Boxing Day Test cricket at home, their last encounter being a rain-affected draw against England at Harare Sports Club in 1996. Since then, Zimbabwe has only participated in Boxing Day Tests overseas, with matches against New Zealand in 2000 and South Africa in 2017, the latter being a pink-ball day-night Test in Port Elizabeth. As such, the upcoming New Year’s Test holds immense significance, representing a groundbreaking achievement for the nation—in both a domestic and international context.
The significance of this Test series against Afghanistan is emphasized by the milestones of hosting the first Boxing Day Test in Zimbabwean history and the first New Year’s Test. Zimbabwe has not had the opportunity to celebrate Boxing Day at home since 1996, creating a sense of nostalgia and excitement among fans and players alike. The inclusion of young, uncapped players aims to refresh the squad, while experienced members will guide the team through these important fixtures. This series is seen as a step forward in revitalizing cricket in Zimbabwe and aims to attract local and international attention to the sport within the country.
The unveiling of Zimbabwe’s Test squad for the series against Afghanistan marks a historic milestone for the nation, showcasing an exciting blend of youth and experience. Zimbabwe’s return to home Boxing Day Test cricket after 28 years and their first-ever New Year’s Test presents a unique opportunity not only for the players but also for cricket fans. This series could potentially uplift the status of cricket in Zimbabwe and promote the sport’s resurgence in the region.
Original Source: www.icc-cricket.com
