Zimbabwe name squad for ODI series against Australia

Zimbabwe have named a 15-member squad for their three-match ODI series against Australia at Harare Sports Club, with Sikandar Raza set to captain the side.

The matches will take place on September 15, 18 and 20, marking Australia’s first ODI visit to Zimbabwe in more than a decade.

Raza will lead the side as regular captain Richard Ngarava continues his recovery from a lower-back injury. Tanaka Chivanga, who is sidelined with an Achilles tendon injury, also misses out, while wicketkeeper-batter Clive Madande is unavailable after featuring in Zimbabwe’s most recent ODI assignment against Bangladesh in July.

Zimbabwe have welcomed back two experienced campaigners in Brendan Taylor and Graeme Cremer. Alongside Raza and Craig Ervine, their return adds significant experience to the squad.

Brian Bennett, Ben Curran and Innocent Kaia provide the main top-order batting options, while Blessing Muzarabani will lead the pace attack alongside Brad Evans, Newman Nyamhuri and Ernest Masuku.

Cremer and Wellington Masakadza are the specialist spin options, with Ryan Burl and Wessly Madhevere offering further all-round ability. 

Zimbabwe squad for ODI series against Australia

Sikandar Raza (c), Ben Curran, Blessing Muzarabani, Brad Evans, Brendan Taylor, Brian Bennett, Craig Ervine, Ernest Masuku, Graeme Cremer, Innocent Kaia, Newman Nyamhuri, Ryan Burl, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wellington Masakadza, Wessly Madhevere

The series will be another important opportunity for Zimbabwe to test themselves against top-level opposition as they continue their preparations for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027, which the country will co-host alongside South Africa and Namibia.