Zimbabwe Names Squad for Namibia T20I Tri-Series

The Chevrons (image source)

Zimbabwe Cricket has officially announced its squad for the highly anticipated Namibia T20I Tri-Series, which kicks off next week at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. The selection signals both a homecoming and a rebirth for the national side, as returning legends Brendan Taylor and Sean Williams headline a roster built on equal parts experience and promise.

“It’s a squad built for redemption,” said former national coach Heath Streak. “Taylor and Williams bring the kind of leadership and grit that Zimbabwe needs right now.”

The squad will be captained by all-rounder Sikandar Raza, who has become the face of Zimbabwean cricket in recent years. Raza is joined by seasoned campaigners Taylor and Williams—both revered for their resilience and match-winning abilities—as well as core players like Blessing Muzarabani and Richard Ngarava, who form the backbone of Zimbabwe’s pace attack. Emerging talents such as Brian Bennett, Tinotenda Maposa, and Tadiwanashe Marumani have also been included, offering a glimpse into the next generation of Chevrons. Cricket analysts say the blend could be key to unlocking consistency.

Zimbabwe’s absence from the 2024 T20 World Cup still looms large. Losses to Namibia and Uganda during the qualifying campaign were a bitter pill for both players and fans. This tri-series, featuring regional powerhouse Namibia, is viewed as both a warm-up and a psychological test ahead of the 2026 Africa qualifiers.

“We’ve learned from our mistakes,” Raza told reporters. “This series is about proving we belong on the world stage.”

Squad in Full Zimbabwe T20I Squad vs Namibia:

• Sikandar Raza (captain)

• Brendan Taylor (wk)

• Sean Williams

• Brian Bennett

• Ryan Burl

• Brad Evans

• Trevor Gwandu

• Clive Madande

• Tinotenda Maposa

• Tadiwanashe Marumani

• Wellington Masakadza

• Tony Munyonga

• Tashinga Musekiwa

• Blessing Muzarabani

• Dion Myers

• Richard Ngarava

With regional cricket growing stronger, Zimbabwe risks losing its foothold without a revival. Namibia’s meteoric rise has challenged the Chevrons’ dominance in southern Africa, and Uganda’s emergence has raised the stakes. Success in Bulawayo will not only restore pride but also send a message that Zimbabwe still has the talent to compete.

“This isn’t just about runs and wickets—it’s about identity,” said cricket writer Tinashe Chuma. “Zimbabwe needs to remind the world that it belongs in top-tier cricket.”