Zimbabwe announce T20I squad for Afghanistan series; Graeme Cremer returns after 7 years

Zimbabwe announce T20I squad for Afghanistan series; Graeme Cremer returns after 7 years

Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) have unveiled their 15-member squad for the upcoming three-match home T20 International (T20I) series against Afghanistanwith the headline news being the sensational return of the veteran player and former captain, after a seven-year hiatus from international cricket. The series, which is a crucial part of both nations’ preparation for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026is scheduled to start on October 29, 2025 at the Harare Sports Club. Notably, both sides recently faced each other in a one-off Test where the hosts won by an innings and 73 runs.

Graeme Cremer returns after 7 years

The inclusion of Graeme Cremer is the talk of the cricket world. At 39 years old, the player last wore the colors of Zimbabwe in 2018. After his retirement, Cremer moved to the United Arab Emirates and even took up golf. His recent decision to return home and compete in domestic cricket has borne fruit, with selectors rewarding his form and experience.

Cremer’s return marks the only change to the team that recently went undefeated during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup African Qualifierwhere Zimbabwe secured their place for the 2026 tournament. Replaces pace bowler Trevor Gwandu on the 15-man squad. His wealth of experience, including 29 T20I appearances, will be invaluable to the team, especially as they look to build a solid spin bowling unit.

Sikandar Raza will lead a family team

The team will continue to be led by a veteran all-rounder. Sikandar Raza. The selectors have largely opted for continuity, showing confidence in the core group of players who performed admirably in the playoffs. The team is a mix of experienced activists and promising young talents.

Veteran wicketkeeper-batsman Brendan Taylor he also retains his place as he continues his return to the international set-up. The pace attack will be led by the experienced duo of Richard Ngarava and Muzarabani Blessing.

ALSO READ: Fans react as Ben Curran and Richard Ngarava power Zimbabwe to one innings, 73 run win over Afghanistan in unique Test

The team sees the retention of several impressive young players from recent playoffs, including batsmen. Brian Bennett and Dion Myersgoalie Clive Madandéand SUVs Brad Evans and Tashinga Musekiwa. His continued inclusion underlines the selectors’ commitment to developing the next generation of Zimbabwe cricketers alongside the experience of players like Raza and Cremer. A notable absentee remains a senior all-rounder Sean Williamswho is not yet available to attend to personal matters.

Zimbabwe squad for T20I series against Afghanistan:

Sikandar Raza (c), Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl, Graeme Cremer, Brad Evans, Clive Madande, Tinotenda Maposa, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wellington Masakadza, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Blessing Muzarabani, Dion Myers, Richard Ngarava, Brendan Taylor.

Also READ: Afghanistan announced Test and T20I teams for Zimbabwe tour

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