Sikandar Raza has been named captain for both white-ball formats during Zimbabwe’s upcoming tour of the United Arab Emirates. The veteran all-rounder steps into the ODI leadership role to cover for Richard Ngarava, who remains sidelined due to a back injury. The squad selection reflects a blend of experience and emerging talent, with newcomers Tafadzwa Tsiga and Vincent Masekesa joining established names like Craig Ervine and Brendan Taylor. While Innocent Kaia is currently recovering from a thigh strain, he is anticipated to rejoin the lineup for the T20I leg of the tour. Kundai Matigimu is also set to join the rotation, serving as a replacement for Brad Evans during the third and final T20I against Afghanistan. With Tafadzwa Tsiga and Vincent Masekesa replacing Innocent Kaia and Graeme Cremer, the ODI squad largely comprises the group that faced Australia in Harare last month.
The intensive itinerary spans from October 17 to November 17. The side will initially compete in an ODI tri-series against Bangladesh and Afghanistan. Zimbabwe kicks off their campaign against Bangladesh on October 17, followed by a match against Afghanistan on October 19. Following a final round-robin clash between Afghanistan and Bangladesh on October 21, the tournament concludes with a final on October 23 for the top two teams. The white-ball schedule transitions into a three-match T20I series against Afghanistan, with games slated for October 27, October 29, and November 1.
Zimbabwe’s bowling attack features Blessing Muzarabani leading the pace department alongside Ernest Masuku, Newman Nyamhuri, and Brad Evans, with spin duties falling to Wellington Masakadza and Masekesa. The batting depth is supported by Ben Curran, Brian Bennett, and Tadiwanashe Marumani. The month-long tour officially concludes with two Test matches against Afghanistan, scheduled to run from November 5 to 9 and November 13 to 17 respectively.
