Ben Curran and Sikandar Raza back as Zimbabwe reveal 16-member squad for New Zealand Test Series

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In a bid to reset their red-ball campaign after a testing series against South Africa, Zimbabwe have named a 16-man squad for the two-match Test series against New Zealand. The announcement made by Zimbabwe Cricket, marks the return of experienced campaigners Sikandar Raza and Ben Curran. The matches, part of Zimbabwe’s continued efforts to assert themselves on the Test stage, are scheduled from July 30 to August 3 and August 7 to 11, both at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo.

With four changes from the squad that faced South Africa earlier in July, Zimbabwe look to find the right blend of experience and emerging talent. In addition to Curran and Raza, the selectors have brought back Roy Kaia and Tanunurwa Makoni, while Takudzwanashe Kaitano, Prince Masvaure, Wessly Madhevere, and Kundai Matigimu make way. A notable boost for the team is the return of opening batter Brian Bennett, who has recovered following a concussion sustained during the South Africa series.

Among the most notable inclusions is Curran, who had been sidelined during the South Africa series due to a fractured hand he sustained in a Test against England in May. A technically sound left-hander, Curran is expected to provide stability at the top of the order. Zimbabwe will hope that his return brings composure and resilience against one of the world’s finest seam attacks.

Equally significant is the reintroduction of Raza into the Test setup. Though a regular in Zimbabwe’s limited-overs formats, Raza has played sparingly in the longest format in recent years. His inclusion signals Zimbabwe’s intent to bank on experience and all-round skills as they look to counter New Zealand’s depth and discipline. With both batting and spin-bowling pedigree, Raza is expected to play a key role both on and off the field.

Kaia and Makoni, who add depth to the batting, round out the returning quartet. The selectors’ decision to blend experience with a core of promising talent reflects a long-term approach to rebuilding Zimbabwe’s Test side.

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With both Tests slated to be held in Bulawayo, the familiar conditions may offer Zimbabwe a small home advantage. Captain Craig Ervine will once again lead the side, supported by senior pros like Sean Williams and Blessing Muzarabani. The pace attack will be spearheaded by Muzarabani and supported by the likes of Trevor Gwandu and Tanaka Chivanga, while spin duties will likely be shared between Wellington Masakadza and Raza.

Zimbabwe’s campaign against the Blackcaps will be a test of temperament and resilience. New Zealand’s formidable Test outfit presents a challenging opponent, making this series a vital opportunity for Zimbabwe to fine-tune their key combinations and assert their place in the longer format.

Craig Ervine (Captain), Brian Bennett, Tanaka Chivanga, Ben Curran, Trevor Gwandu, Roy Kaia, Tanunurwa Makoni, Clive Madande, Vincent Masekesa, Wellington Masakadza, Blessing Muzarabani, Newman Nyamhuri, Sikandar Raza, Tafadzwa Tsiga, Nicholas Welch, Sean Williams.

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