Ngarava named as Zimbabwe’s new Test and ODI captain

HARARE – Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) has appointed left-arm fast bowler Richard Ngarava as the national team’s new Test and One-Day International (ODI) captain, with Brian Bennett named as vice-captain.

The appointments were confirmed at the ZC Board’s fourth-quarter meeting held in Harare on Friday.

Ngarava replaces veteran batter Craig Ervine, who steps down after leading the side through a key rebuilding phase.

ZC Chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani congratulated the new leadership duo and paid tribute to the outgoing captain.

“Ngarava has shown remarkable growth as a player and leader over the years,” he said.

“He commands respect within the dressing room and has consistently delivered for Zimbabwe across all formats.

“We believe he is ready to lead the team into its next chapter.”

Mukuhlani added: “Brian’s appointment as vice-captain reflects our confidence in his cricketing intelligence, maturity and long-term leadership potential.

“He represents the future of Zimbabwean cricket.”

The Chairman also thanked Ervine for his service.

“Craig Ervine led with professionalism, resilience and dignity during a challenging period,” he said.

“ZC is deeply grateful for his contribution to the team’s stability and progress.”

Ngarava, who made his international debut in 2017, is a mainstay of Zimbabwe’s bowling attack.

A left-arm fast bowler, he has represented the country in Tests, ODIs and T20Is, becoming the first Zimbabwean to take 100 T20I wickets.

His career highlights include match-winning five-wicket hauls in both Test and ODI cricket and a pivotal role in Zimbabwe’s first home Test victory in 12 years.

Bennett, one of Zimbabwe’s brightest young all-rounders, has risen rapidly since captaining the Under-19 side and making his senior international debut across all formats by the age of 21.

His recent milestones include Test and ODI centuries, the fastest Test hundred by a Zimbabwean and standout performances in red-ball and limited-overs cricket.

ZC said the appointments form part of its long-term strategy to build a competitive and sustainable national team. – ZC Media