Sikandar Raza Returns as Zimbabwe Name Squad for Historic England Test

Zimbabwe have named seasoned allrounder Sikandar Raza in their 15-member squad for the upcoming four-day Test against England. Raza missed recent red-ball assignments due to franchise league commitments. He returns to bolster Zimbabwe’s middle order and provide experience with both bat and ball.

The national selectors have made three key changes to the squad that recently toured Bangladesh. Raza replaces Johnathan Campbell, while wicketkeeper-batter Clive Madande returns from injury, taking the place of Nyasha Mayavo as back-up to primary gloveman Tafadzwa Tsiga. In a tactical switch suited to English conditions, the selectors have omitted legspinner Vincent Masekesa—despite his five-wicket haul on debut in Chattogram—and brought in right-arm seamer Newman Nyamhuri to strengthen the pace attack.

Raza’s Comeback Adds Balance

Raza’s return adds valuable depth to the squad. A proven match-winner in all formats, he brings leadership, versatility, and composure in high-pressure situations. His presence will also ease the burden on senior pros Craig Ervine and Sean Williams, while offering a crucial spin-bowling option alongside Wellington Masakadza.

Clive Madande’s comeback from injury further stabilizes the squad’s wicketkeeping department, while young batters like Nick Welch and Brian Bennett continue to gain exposure at the international level.

Seam Over Spin in English Conditions

Zimbabwe have made a conscious decision to tweak their bowling combination for seam-friendly English conditions. Newman Nyamhuri, known for his disciplined line and ability to generate movement, has earned his spot ahead of Masekesa, who impressed with the ball in Bangladesh.

Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, and Victor Nyauchi will likely form the core of the pace unit, giving Zimbabwe a robust attack that can exploit the swing and bounce expected at Trent Bridge.

Historic Return to English Soil

This Test marks Zimbabwe’s first red-ball outing in England since 2003 and ends a 21-year hiatus from international cricket in the country. The game presents a rare and valuable opportunity for Zimbabwe’s cricketers to showcase their growth on one of cricket’s grandest stages.

Following the England clash, Zimbabwe will play a four-day game against South Africa in Arundel from June 3 to 6. That fixture will serve as South Africa’s preparation for the ICC World Test Championship final against Australia at Lord’s, beginning June 11.

Zimbabwe squad for four-day Test against England:

Craig Ervine (capt), Brian Bennett, Ben Curran, Trevor Gwandu, Clive Madande (wk), Wessly Madhevere, Wellington Masakadza, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Newman Nyamhuri, Victor Nyauchi, Sikandar Raza, Tafadzwa Tsiga (wk), Nick Welch, Sean Williams.

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