Brian Bennett to Lead Zimbabwe Against Afghanistan as Graeme Cremer Returns

Brian Bennett has been appointed to captain Zimbabwe for the two-match Test series against Afghanistan, scheduled to begin on November 5 in Sharjah. The leadership change comes as regular skipper Richard Ngarava has been ruled out of the tour due to a persistent back injury.

The 17-man squad features the notable return of veteran leg-spinner Graeme Cremer, who makes his comeback to the Test format for the first time since December 2017. Alongside Cremer, the selectors have included Kundai Matigimu and Vincent Masekesa in the touring party.

Further adjustments to the lineup see all-rounder Antum Naqvi join the squad following his recent qualification under ICC eligibility rules. Conversely, fast bowler Tanaka Chivanga has been excluded from the tour due to injury. The full squad consists of Brian Bennett, 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.