Belgian-born all-rounder Antum Naqvi is poised to make his Test debut for Zimbabwe in their upcoming two-match series against Afghanistan, commencing this Thursday in Sharjah. Naqvi, who has been with Zimbabwe’s cricket scene since 2023, now meets the ICC’s eligibility criteria and could step onto the field for his adopted country for the first time.
Naqvi is highly regarded, boasting a remarkable batting average of 60.35. He made headlines in 2024 by becoming the first cricketer to score a triple-century for any Zimbabwean team, with an unbeaten 300 for the Mid-West Rhinos against the Tuskers. His first-class achievements include six centuries and eight fifties, along with 62 wickets.
In the absence of regular captain Richard Ngarava, who is sidelined with a back injury, the 22-year-old Brian Bennett will take on the captaincy. Bennett’s side will be buttressed by seasoned batsmen such as former captains Craig Ervine and Brendan Taylor. Ben Curran, Innocent Kaia, and Tadiwanashe Marumani are anticipated to contribute significantly as well.
Zimbabwe’s bowling line-up, though missing Ngarava and Tanaka Chivanga, includes Blessing Muzarabani. He will be joined by Brad Evans, Newman Nyamhuri, Kundai Matigimu—who has a single Test cap—and newcomer Ernest Masuku.
Graeme Cremer, the now 40-year-old legspinner, also returns to the Test set-up nearly nine years after his last appearance. Cremer, a familiar name in Zimbabwe’s limited-overs sides, brings with him experience from his time in the UAE. The spin department will feature Naqvi, Cremer, Vincent Masekesa, and Wellington Masakadza.
Naqvi’s international journey towards this milestone has been gradual. Of Pakistani descent, he has resided in Australia as well. He was initially selected for a T20I series against India in July 2024 but was ineligible due to passport issues. Similarly, his potential Test debut against Afghanistan in October 2025 was delayed due to the same paperwork concerns. As of June this year, Zimbabwe Cricket declared they were still awaiting the green light, but on Wednesday, they confirmed Naqvi’s eligibility.
Zimbabwe Squad for Afghanistan Tests:
Brian Bennett (captain), Antum Naqvi, Ben Curran, Blessing Muzarabani, Brad Evans, Brendan Taylor, Craig Ervine, Graeme Cremer, Innocent Kaia, Ernest Masuku, Kundai Matigimu, Newman Nyamhuri, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Tafadzwa Tsiga, Vincent Masekesa, Wellington Masakadza, Wessly Madhevere.
