Zimbabwe Selects Brian Bennett as Captain for Upcoming Test Series Against Afghanistan

Zimbabwe has officially announced its squad for the upcoming Test series against Afghanistan, appointing 22-year-old Brian Bennett as captain. With key players returning and a strong lineup, the team aims to build on their recent successes. The series will take place in the UAE, concluding Zimbabwe's tour after participating in various formats. Read on for more details about the squad and match schedule.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 4, 2026, 21:15 IST

Zimbabwe's Test Squad Announcement

Zimbabwe has appointed 22-year-old Brian Bennett as the captain for their two-match Test series against Afghanistan, taking place in the United Arab Emirates. This decision comes as the regular captain, Richard Ngarava, is still recovering from a back injury. The squad consists of 17 players, notably excluding fast bowler Tanaka Chivanga, who is sidelined due to injury, as reported by the ICC.

Team Composition and Notable Returns

The squad features seasoned players Brendan Taylor and Craig Ervine, who remained in the UAE after the ODI tri-series to prepare for the Test matches. They will be joined by Innocent Kaia, Ben Curran, Tadiwanashe Marumani, and Wessly Madhevere in the batting lineup. Veteran leg-spinner Graeme Cremer makes a comeback to the Test team, alongside recalls for Kundai Matigimu and Vincent Masekesa. All-rounder Antum Naqvi has also been included after fulfilling the ICC eligibility requirements to play for Zimbabwe.

The pace attack will be led by Blessing Muzarabani, supported by Brad Evans, Newman Nyamhuri, Matigimu, and the uncapped Ernest Masuku. Spin options include Cremer and Wellington Masakadza, while Tafadzwa Tsiga has been named as the wicketkeeper-batter.

Test Series Schedule

The first Test is set to take place from November 5 to 9, followed by the second Test from November 13 to 17, both at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium. This series will conclude Zimbabwe's tour of the UAE, which included participation in the ODI tri-series against Afghanistan and Bangladesh, as well as a T20I series against Afghanistan.

Zimbabwe squad: 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, Wessly Madhevere.