Craig Ervine to Lead as Zimbabwe Announces Squad for Historic Test Against Ireland

Zimbabwe has unveiled its 15-member squad for their inaugural Test match against Ireland, scheduled to take place from July 25–29 at Stormont in Belfast, Ireland. Veteran cricketer Craig Ervine will captain the side, which includes notable senior players such as Sean Williams, Tendai Chatara, Blessing Muzarabani, and Richard Ngarava.

Uncapped Players to Watch

The squad also features four uncapped players who are set to make their Test debuts: Jonathan Campbell, Brian Bennett, and wicketkeeper-batters Clive Madande and Joylord Gumbie. Their inclusion marks an exciting opportunity for fresh talent to showcase their skills on the international stage.

Zimbabwe Test squad for the one-off Test against Ireland: Craig Ervine (c), Brian Bennett, Johnathan Campbell, Tendai Chatara, Tanaka Chivanga, Joylord Gumbie, Roy Kaia, Clive Madande, Wellington Masakadza, Prince Masvaure, Blessing Muzarabani, Dion Myers, Richard Ngarava, Victor Nyauchi, and Sean Williams.

Zimbabwe’s Recent Test Performance

This Test match marks Zimbabwe’s return to the longest format since their home series against the West Indies in 2023, which they lost 0-1. Ervine’s side will be eager to turn their fortunes around in this historic encounter against Ireland.

Ireland’s Test History

Ireland, on the other hand, last played a Test match against Afghanistan earlier this year, securing a victory by six wickets. This upcoming Test against Zimbabwe promises to be a thrilling contest as both teams vie for supremacy.

Zimbabwe vs. India T20I Series Update

In the ongoing five-match T20I series against India, Zimbabwe is currently trailing 2-1. Sikandar Raza’s side started strong by winning the first game, with their bowlers defending a modest total of 116 to clinch a 13-run victory at the Harare Sports Club on July 6.

However, India bounced back with authority, winning the next two matches. Shubman Gill’s team secured a dominant 100-run victory in the second game and followed it up with a 23-run win in the third.

After the third game, Raza emphasized the need for senior players to step up, saying, “It’s time that our players including myself take up the responsibility. The youngsters making mistakes is acceptable, but the senior players need to step up.” He stressed the importance of maintaining consistency, especially among the selected openers.

The fourth T20I between India and Zimbabwe is set for Saturday, July 13, where Zimbabwe will aim to level the series.

Looking Ahead

With the historic Test against Ireland on the horizon, all eyes will be on Zimbabwe’s squad to see if they can rise to the occasion and make a mark in the annals of cricket history.