Are Curran and Raza Returning to the Zimbabwe Squad for New Zealand Tests?
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Synopsis
In a significant development for Zimbabwe cricket, Ben Curran and Sikandar Raza are making a comeback to the national squad for the Test series against New Zealand. With pivotal players back on board, fans are eager to see how this will influence the team’s performance on the field.
Key Takeaways
- Ben Curran and Sikandar Raza return to bolster the squad.
- Key players like Brian Bennett also return after injuries.
- The series marks the first Test encounter since 2016.
- The matches will take place at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo.
- Zimbabwe seeks to improve after a recent series loss to South Africa.
Harare, July 21 (NationPress) Ben Curran and Sikandar Raza have made their way back into Zimbabwe's squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against New Zealand, set to take place at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo.
Curran, who was sidelined during the matches against South Africa due to a hand injury, is now fully fit and rejoining the team. Alongside him, Raza, Roy Kaia, and Tanunurwa Makoni are included, while Takudzwanashe Kaitano, Prince Masvaure, Wessly Madhevere, and Kundai Matigimu have been excluded.
In another positive development, Brian Bennett, who missed part of the South Africa series due to a concussion, is back in the squad. Consequently, Dion Myers, who was called up as a replacement, has been omitted.
The team will be captained by Craig Ervine, supported by seasoned players Sean Williams and Blessing Muzarabani in the batting and bowling departments, respectively.
Notably, Richard Ngarava, despite returning from a back injury during the Test against England, has not been named in the squad, even though he is participating in the current T20 tri-series involving Zimbabwe, South Africa, and New Zealand.
This series will be the first Test encounter between Zimbabwe and New Zealand since July-August 2016, when New Zealand secured a 2-0 series victory at the same venue in Bulawayo.
The first Test is scheduled from July 30 to August 3, with the second match from August 7 to 11. This series is not part of the World Test Championship. Currently, Zimbabwe is engaged in a T20I tri-series alongside South Africa and New Zealand, following a two-match Test series against South Africa that ended in a 2-0 loss.
Zimbabwe squad: Craig Ervine (c), 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.
Point of View
I believe that bringing back experienced players like Ben Curran and Sikandar Raza is crucial for Zimbabwe's performance against New Zealand. Their experience and skill could be the key to revitalizing the team's strategy and morale. As always, we stand with Zimbabwe cricket, supporting them through their challenges and triumphs.
NationPress
21/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the key players returning to Zimbabwe's squad?
Ben Curran and Sikandar Raza are the notable players returning to Zimbabwe's squad for the series against New Zealand.
When will the Test series against New Zealand take place?
The first Test is scheduled from July 30 to August 3, with the second Test set for August 7 to 11.
What has been the recent performance of Zimbabwe in Test matches?
Zimbabwe recently played a two-match Test series against South Africa, which they lost 2-0.
Is this series part of the World Test Championship?
No, the upcoming series against New Zealand is not part of the World Test Championship.
Who will captain the Zimbabwe team in this series?
Craig Ervine will lead the Zimbabwe team in the Test series against New Zealand.
