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Zimbabwe Suffers Major Blows Ahead of South Africa Tests as Raza, Curran, and Ngarava Miss Out
Key Players Sidelined for Two-Match Test Series in Bulawayo
Zimbabwe will head into their upcoming red-ball series against South Africa missing some of their most experienced players, as Richard Ngarava, Ben Curran, and Sikandar Raza have all been ruled out. Zimbabwe Cricket confirmed the squad changes in a press release while naming a 16-member squad for the two-match Test series starting on June 28, 2025, at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo.
Ngarava, Curran Ruled Out with Injuries
Zimbabwe’s left-arm pacer Richard Ngarava, who has been a key part of their pace attack, will miss the series due to a lower back injury sustained during the recent Test match against England. Similarly, Ben Curran, a promising top-order batter, has been sidelined with a fractured finger. He suffered the injury earlier this month during a warm-up match against South Africa in Arundel.
Raza Unavailable Due to Franchise Commitments
Adding to Zimbabwe’s selection woes, senior all-rounder Sikandar Raza will also be unavailable for the series. Raza is currently committed to playing for the Seattle Orcas in Major League Cricket (MLC) in the United States. His absence leaves a noticeable gap in the middle order and reduces Zimbabwe’s overall experience and balance.
Opportunities for New and Returning Players
The absence of key players has opened the door for several newcomers and returnees in the Zimbabwe squad. Kundai Matigimu, a 27-year-old fast bowler, has been rewarded with his first-ever Test call-up. Known for his aggressive bowling style and domestic consistency, Matigimu is expected to bring fresh energy to the pace unit.
Vincent Masekesa Returns; Gwandu Fit Again
Legspinner Vincent Masekesa, who impressed during the Bangladesh Test series in April, returns to the fold. Zimbabwe’s spin options will also be supported by Wellington Masakadza, providing variety in the bowling attack. On the fast-bowling front, Trevor Gwandu makes a comeback after recovering from a groin injury, adding depth alongside Blessing Muzarabani and Tanaka Chivanga.
Batting Reinforcements: Masvaure and Kaitano Included
Zimbabwe has called up Prince Masvaure and Takudzwanashe Kaitano to strengthen the top order. Both batters have shown grit in past Test appearances and are expected to provide support to the experienced core of Craig Ervine (Captain), Sean Williams, and Brian Bennett. This experienced trio will be vital in anchoring the innings against South Africa’s formidable bowling attack.
Read our in-depth preview of Zimbabwe vs South Africa Test Series
Squad Breakdown and Fixture Details
Zimbabwe Test Squad:
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Craig Ervine (Captain)
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Brian Bennett
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Tanaka Chivanga
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Trevor Gwandu
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Takudzwanashe Kaitano
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Wessly Madhevere
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Clive Madande
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Vincent Masekesa
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Wellington Masakadza
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Prince Masvaure
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Kundai Matigimu
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Blessing Muzarabani
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Newman Nyamhuri
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Tafadzwa Tsiga (wk)
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Nicholas Welch
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Sean Williams
Match Schedule
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1st Test: June 28 – July 2, 2025
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2nd Test: July 6 – July 10, 2025
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Venue: Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo
Challenges Ahead for Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe’s squad depth and flexibility will be put to the test in the absence of their frontline players. With Raza and Ngarava unavailable, the onus will be on younger and fringe players to deliver against a well-rounded South African side. However, the series also presents an opportunity for Zimbabwe’s next generation of cricketers to shine in the longest format of the game.
