Evans and Ngarava Make Comeback for Crucial Afghanistan Test

Zimbabwe has brought Brad Evans back into their Test squad for the upcoming solo match against Afghanistan later this month. Evans, who played his only Test match in 2023 against the West Indies, has been in exceptional form recently, contributing significantly to Zimbabwe’s qualification for the 2026 T20 World Cup.

Fast bowler Richard Ngarava is also returning to the squad after being rested during their last Test series against New Zealand. The squad of 16 includes two uncapped players: Antum Naqvi, who recently became eligible to play for Zimbabwe, and Tinotenda Maposa.

Veteran player Sean Williams, absent from the T20 World Cup qualifiers for personal reasons, remains out. Trevor Gwandu, Newman Nyamhuri, Clive Madande, and Vincent Masekesa have not been included from the previous squad. Craig Ervine will captain the team in the match starting on October 20 in Harare.

Following the Test match, the teams will compete in three T20I games. This marks Afghanistan’s second visit to Zimbabwe in under a year, with their last tour seeing them secure a 2-0 win in a two-Test series.

Squad: Craig Ervine (C), Brian Bennett, Tanaka Chivanga, Ben Curran, Brad Evans, Roy Kaia, Tanunurwa Makoni, Wellington Masakadza, Tinotenda Maposa, Blessing Muzarabani, Antum Naqvi, Richard Ngarava, Sikandar Raza, Tafadzwa Tsiga, Brendan Taylor, Nick Welch