Bennett will lead a side that retains much of the core group responsible for Zimbabwe’s biggest-ever Test victory in June, a win by an innings and 85 runs against Bangladesh at the Harare Sports Club. Experienced batters Brendan Taylor and Craig Ervine have been retained, having remained in the UAE following the ODI tri-series to prepare specifically for this red-ball assignment. They will be joined in the batting lineup by Innocent Kaia, Ben Curran, Tadiwanashe Marumani, and Wessly Madhevere.
The most significant personnel changes involve the inclusion of all-rounder Antum Naqvi, who has met ICC eligibility criteria to represent Zimbabwe, and the return of veteran leg-spinner Graeme Cremer. Cremer, who last featured in a Test in December 2017, adds experience to the spin department alongside Wellington Masakadza. Kundai Matigimu and fast bowler Vincent Masekesa have also earned recalls to the 17-man squad. Blessing Muzarabani will spearhead the pace attack, supported by Brad Evans, Newman Nyamhuri, Matigimu, and uncapped fast bowler Ernest Masuku. Wicketkeeper-batter Tafadzwa Tsiga completes the selection.
The series marks the conclusion of Zimbabwe’s UAE tour, which included participation in an ODI tri-series involving Afghanistan and Bangladesh, as well as a T20I series against Afghanistan. The first Test is scheduled to take place from November 5 to November 9 at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium. The second and final match of the series will be played from November 13 to November 17 at the same venue.
The full 17-member squad for the Afghanistan series is as follows: 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, and Wessly Madhevere.
