Zimbabwe Test Squad for Bangladesh 2026 Announced, Sikandar Raza Out

Sikandar Raza for Tests [Source: AFP]

Zimbabwe have announced a 15-member squad for their upcoming one-off Test against Bangladesh, scheduled to begin on June 28 at the Harare Sports Club. The fixture marks Zimbabwe’s return to red-ball cricket after their impressive victory over Afghanistan in October 2025. 

The selectors have retained the core of that successful squad while introducing a few fresh faces and experienced campaigners. One notable absentee is star all-rounder Sikandar Raza, who will not be available due to commitments in England as the team chose a new captain for the series beginning from June 28.

Sikandar Raza Sits Out Of Bangladesh Test

Zimbabwe will be without one of their most experienced cricketers for the upcoming encounter. Sikandar Raza has been granted permission to continue his commitments with Worcestershire County Cricket Club in England, where he is participating in the remainder of the 2026 Vitality Blast campaign.

Raza's absence leaves a significant gap in Zimbabwe's lineup. Over the years, he has been a key contributor with both bat and ball across formats and remains one of the most dependable performers in the national setup. 

The all-rounder was also part of Zimbabwe's recent Test comeback and played an important role during their successful tour of Bangladesh in 2025. 

Richard Ngarava Takes Charge As New Captain

The Bangladesh Test will mark a significant milestone in Richard Ngarava's career as he prepares to captain Zimbabwe in Test cricket for the first time. The left-arm fast bowler now gets his first opportunity to lead the side in the longest format.

Ngarava enters the role on the back of strong performances with the ball. During Zimbabwe's innings-and-73-run victory over Afghanistan in Harare last year, he produced one of the standout displays of the match, claiming a five-wicket haul and helping dismantle the opposition batting lineup.

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The match also represents another chapter in the growing rivalry between Zimbabwe and Bangladesh. When the two teams last met in a two-Test series in Bangladesh during 2025, Zimbabwe stunned the hosts in the opening Test before Bangladesh bounced back to level the series 1-1.

Strong 15-Member Zimbabwe Squad To Face Bangladesh

Zimbabwe have selected a balanced squad that combines experienced performers with emerging talent. Several players who featured in the victory over Afghanistan retain their places, providing continuity ahead of the Bangladesh challenge.

The selectors have also recalled five players who were not part of the Afghanistan Test squad. Innocent Kaia, Graeme Cremer, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wessly Madhevere and Newman Nyamhuri have all earned places after producing encouraging performances in domestic and representative cricket.

One of the most interesting inclusions is veteran leg-spinner Graeme Cremer. The 39-year-old returns to the Test setup after a long absence, having last played a Test match in 2017. His experience could prove valuable on familiar home conditions.

Zimbabwe will also rely on players such as Craig Ervine, Blessing Muzarabani, Brad Evans and Ben Curran, who were instrumental in recent successes. Curran's century and Evans' five-wicket haul against Afghanistan highlighted the depth available within the squad.

With a mix of youth, experience and players returning to the fold, Zimbabwe appear determined to build on the progress made over the last two years. A positive result against Bangladesh would further strengthen confidence ahead of a busy international schedule.

Zimbabwe Squad For Bangladesh Test

Richard Ngarava (Captain), Brian Bennett, Tanaka Chivanga, Graeme Cremer, Ben Curran, Craig Ervine, Brad Evans, Innocent Kaia, Roy Kaia, Wessly Madhevere, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Blessing Muzarabani, Newman Nyamhuri, Brendan Taylor, Tafadzwa Tsiga

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