Zimbabwe Line-Up for the 1st Test against Afghanistan - A Chance for Redemption

As Zimbabwe gears up for the two-match Test series against Afghanistan, the hosts are determined to overturn their recent dismal performances in the T20I and ODI series. The first Test of the Afghanistan tour of Zimbabwe 2024-25 is set to take place on Thursday, December 26, at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. Let’s delve into Zimbabwe’s playing XI for the opening Test and explore the key players who could shape their quest for redemption.

The recent outings of Zimbabwe in the limited-overs format were not promising at all. The T20I series was lost by 2-1, while the ODI series ended with a clean sweep against Afghanistan. The batting unit failed to get into any sort of rhythm, leaving the team vulnerable.

In the first ODI, rain curtailed proceedings, but Zimbabwe’s fragile batting was evident as they stumbled to 44/5 within the first 10 overs. The second ODI further exposed their woes, with the team folding for a paltry 54 runs in pursuit of a daunting 287. The third match, a must-win, saw a similar story as the hosts managed only 127 runs, succumbing to an 8-wicket loss.

Now, all eyes are on the Test series, wherein Zimbabwe looks to find comfort and belief in the longer format.

Probable Zimbabwe XI for the 1st Test

Openers: Ben Curran and Joylord Gumbie

The onus of giving a good start lies on the shoulders of Ben Curran and Joylord Gumbie. Curran, who is making his Test debut, has over 2,500 first-class runs to his name. Though his ODI debut against Afghanistan was a damp squib with scores of 15, 0, and 12, he has the potential to shine in the red-ball format.

Gumbie, not too much experienced in Tests, will look to capitalize on this opportunity. Having played only one ODI against Afghanistan, where he managed just 3 runs, Gumbie aims to cement his place in the team with a strong performance.

Middle-Order: Dion Myers, Craig Ervine, Sean Williams, Brian Bennett, and Sikandar Raza

Captain Craig Ervine is on the back foot to inspire his team. Though the ODIs were not at all good with scores of 1*, 4, and 5, his leadership and batting will be required to take Zimbabwe through the Test series.

Sean Williams, who has been a consistent performer against Afghanistan, will be a great asset. Having scored centuries in both the previous Tests against the visitors, Williams is likely to stabilize the innings.

Sikandar Raza, all-rounder of seasoned caliber, will be essential for both bat and ball. His off-spin complemented by middle-order ability will be a boon for the team. Others are youngsters Dion Myers and Brian Bennett, who have not played much but look determined to make their mark.

Zimbabwe will probably employ a four-armed pacers, namely: Newman Nyamhuni, Richard Ngarava, Trevor Gwandu, and Blessing Muzarabani.

Blessing Muzarabani, the spearhead of the pace attack, looks to make use of conditions in Bulawayo in order to disturb the batting. Richard Ngarava and Trevor Gwandu shall complement him in order to place pressure on the batsmen and take key wickets. Newman Nyamhuri will further strengthen their bowling and present Zimbabwe with a balanced lineup.

Crucial Players to Keep an Eye Out For

• Sean Williams: He was the main man for Zimbabwe in Tests against Afghanistan and could be so again.

• Sikandar Raza: An all-rounder, who could provide that much-needed difference to the Zimbabwe team, is an absolute must. He would not only do the damage with the bat but also return with the wickets in hand.

• Blessing Muzarabani: His experience and talent make him the right candidate to spearhead the attack.

The Bigger Picture

For Zimbabwe, this series is more than just an opportunity to win—it's a chance to restore confidence and show resilience. The longer format allows the team to rebuild and strategize without the relentless pressure of limited overs.

With the first Test on the horizon, Zimbabwe fans would look forward to a spirited performance from their team. The mix of young talent and experienced campaigners could well be the difference between Zimbabwe and the Afghans. Will Zimbabwe rise to the occasion, or will Afghanistan continue their dominance? Only time will tell.