Zimbabwe has officially announced a promising 15-man squad for the T20 World Cup Africa Sub-Regional Qualifiers, scheduled to take place in Kenya this month. This youthful lineup, which highlights the nation’s commitment to developing emerging talent, includes the uncapped duo of all-rounder Tashinga Musekiwa and fast bowler Tinotenda Maposa.
In a strategic move, the selection sees the return of fast bowler Trevor Gwandu, alongside 11 players retained from the squad that recently faced India in July. Under the leadership of new head coach Justin Sammons, Zimbabwe enters the qualifiers with an impressive average squad age of just 26.
The team will be captained by the experienced Sikandar Raza, who brings both leadership and skill to the squad. The lineup is a blend of seasoned players and exciting new talent, ready to face a competitive field that includes Gambia, Kenya, Mozambique, Rwanda, and the Seychelles. The top two teams from this tournament will advance to the regional final, where they will vie for a coveted place in the 2026 T20 World Cup against Namibia and Uganda.
Tashinga Musekiwa, 24, is making waves with his all-round capabilities. He has participated in 21 T20 matches, alongside one first-class game and 29 one-dayers for Mid-West Rhinos. Musekiwa boasts a T20 high score of 38 not out and best bowling figures of 3 for 24, totaling 10 wickets. His recent performance for Zimbabwe Emerging against South Africa Emerging, where he scored an unbeaten 51, has further established him as a player to watch. Tinotenda Maposa, only 21, is another exciting prospect. While he is yet to debut in white-ball cricket, he has made a mark in first-class cricket, taking 14 wickets in five matches. His standout performance in the Logan Cup included 12 wickets, with one five-wicket haul showcasing his potential.
David Mutendera, the convener of selectors, expressed confidence in the squad’s capabilities, stating, “We have picked a young squad that is good enough to make us qualify, and I am confident they will deliver.” He emphasized the importance of nurturing young talent, citing recent successful performances against Bangladesh and India as indicators of the team’s potential. Trevor Gwandu returns to the national setup after last playing for Zimbabwe in December 2023 against Ireland. He has since demonstrated his skills in domestic T20 competitions for Southern Rocks and contributed to Zimbabwe Emerging’s success in the African Games held in Accra, Ghana.
With a fresh mix of experience and youthful energy, Zimbabwe’s cricket team is gearing up for an exciting challenge in the T20 World Cup regional qualifiers. Their objective is clear: secure a place in the 2026 tournament while fostering the next generation of cricketing talent. As the team prepares to face their rivals in Kenya, fans are eager to see how this dynamic squad will perform on the international stage.
Zimbabwe Squad
- Sikandar Raza (captain)
- Faraz Akram
- Brian Bennett
- Ryan Burl
- Trevor Gwandu
- Clive Madande
- Wessly Madhevere
- Tinotenda Maposa
- Tadiwanashe Marumani
- Wellington Masakadza
- Brandon Mavuta
- Tashinga Musekiwa
- Blessing Muzarabani
- Dion Myers
- Richard Ngarava
As the tournament approaches, all eyes will be on Zimbabwe to see how this young squad rises to the occasion, aiming for success in their quest for T20 World Cup qualification.
In other news – Winky D celebrates spectacular performance at Kadoma Music Festival
This past Saturday, renowned dancehall artist Winky D took to his social media to express his gratitude following an electrifying performance at the Kadoma Music Festival. The event, one of the largest shows in Zimbabwe this year, drew thousands of enthusiastic fans, solidifying its status as a must-attend gathering for music lovers.
In his post, Winky D reflected on the incredible energy that filled the venue, saying, “Gafafelt appreciation and love to all who attended the Kadoma Music Festival. Your support turned this highly anticipated event into an unforgettable experience. Read More
