Brian Bennett named Zimbabwe captain for Test series against Afghanistan

Brian Bennett has been appointed captain of Zimbabwe for their upcoming two-match Test series against Afghanistan in the United Arab Emirates. The decision follows an injury to key fast bowler Richard Ngarava, who has been ruled out of the tour.

Bennett takes charge of a 17-member squad that is also missing fast bowler Tanaka Chivanga due to injury. Despite missing key seamers, Zimbabwe have retained the core of the group that registered an innings-and-85-run victory over Bangladesh in Harare in June.

Veteran top-order batters Brendan Taylor and Craig Ervine feature in the squad, having remained in the UAE following the recent One-Day International tri-series to prepare for the Test matches. They will lead a batting department that includes Innocent Kaia, Ben Curran, Tadiwanashe Marumani, and Wessly Madhevere.

Leg-spinner Graeme Cremer makes a return to the Test squad to bolster the spin department. The selection panel has also recalled Kundai Matigimu and Vincent Masekesa, while experienced spinner Wellington Masakadza retains his spot in the group.

All-rounder Antum Naqvi has been included in the Test squad after officially completing the ICC eligibility requirements to represent Zimbabwe. His inclusion provides extra balance to the playing squad in both batting and bowling departments.

Blessing Muzarabani will spearhead the pace department in Ngarava's absence. The fast-bowling unit also includes Brad Evans, Newman Nyamhuri, Matigimu, and uncapped seam bowler Ernest Masuku, who earns his first call-up.

Both matches in the red-ball series will take place at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium in Sharjah. The first Test begins on 5 November, with the second Test scheduled to start on 13 November.

The full Zimbabwe squad includes Brian Bennett (captain), 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.