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Zimbabwe Cricket has announced its squad for the upcoming one-off Test match against Ireland, set to take place from July 25 to 29 in Belfast. The 15-member squad, led by Craig Ervine, features a mix of experienced players and exciting new talent.
This Test match marks a significant milestone, as it will be the first-ever Test encounter between Zimbabwe and Ireland. Zimbabwe’s last Test appearance was in February 2023 against West Indies in Bulawayo.
Despite not being part of the ICC’s World Test Championship, Zimbabwe are taking this opportunity to nurture new talent and reinvigorate its Test cricket program.
The squad features three maiden Test call-ups, Clive Madande, Brian Bennett, and Johnathan Campbell. These young players, currently are participating in the ongoing T20I series against India. Joylord Gumbie, another uncapped player in the squad, has also been included.
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The return of Sean Williams after an injury-induced break adds crucial experience to the lineup. Williams, along with captain Ervine, brings valuable Test match expertise to guide the newer players.
The pace bowling department sees the inclusion of seasoned campaigners like Tendai Chatara, Blessing Muzarabani, Victor Nyauchi, and Richard Ngarava, providing a balanced mix of youth and experience.
Notable absentees from Zimbabwe’s last Test outing include Gary Ballance, who had switched allegiance from England to Zimbabwe, and several other players who featured in the series against West Indies.
Ireland, Zimbabwe’s opponents, have a relatively short Test cricket history, having played only eight matches since their debut in 2018. Their recent victory against Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi was their first in the format.
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Zimbabwe squad for one-off Test in Ireland
Craig Ervine (capt), Brian Bennett, Johnathan Campbell, Tendai Chatara, Tanaka Chivanga, Joylord Gumbie (wk), Roy Kaia, Clive Madande (wk), Wellington Masakadza, Prince Masvaure, Blessing Muzarabani, Dion Myers, Richard Ngarava, Victor Nyauchi, Sean Williams
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