Zimbabwe returns to Test cricket. Can they rise to the challenge in cricket’s most demanding format?

CHENGETAI NYAMUSHONYONGORA 

If you ask a cricket romantic what the best format of the game is, they will almost always say Test cricket. It is not even a debate for some. There is just something worthy about five days of strategy, endurance, and mental grit that no other format can replicate. It is slow-burning, sometimes stubborn, and always deeply rewarding.

Test cricket is not just about winning. It is about surviving, adapting, and growing over sessions and days. It demands discipline, both from the players and the fans. And when it all comes together—when a match goes to the final session of day five—there’s no better drama in sport.

Now, Zimbabwe are heading back into that space. The whites are on, the red ball is ready, and they are off to Bangladesh for a two-match Test series starting 20 April in Sylhet, followed by the second game in Chattogram from 28 April. It is their first red-ball tour to Bangladesh since 2020, when they lost by an innings in Dhaka. This time, they return with more experience, fresh faces, and a renewed focus on the longest format of the game.

The squad has a healthy mix of familiar names and new opportunities. Sean Williams is back after recovering from a back injury—his return adds depth and calm to the middle order. Craig Ervine, too, comes back to captain the side after missing the Test against Ireland earlier this year. His leadership, especially in spin-friendly conditions, will be important.

Zimbabwe have made a few key changes. Wicketkeeper-batter Joylord Gumbie makes way for Tafadzwa Tsiga, who is back in the fold two years after his debut against the West Indies. Wellington Masakadza returns to offer left-arm spin options, replacing young seamer Newman Nyamhuri. Wessly Madhevere keeps his spot after being a last-minute call-up last time, while Johnathan Campbell and Nicholas Welch are also retained. Welch impressed in his debut with a fluent 90, showing he has the temperament for red-ball cricket.

At the top of the bowling, attack is Blessing Muzarabani. He made history earlier this year by becoming the first Zimbabwean fast bowler to take seven wickets in a Test innings. Alongside him, Richard Ngarava will bring variety and control. Together, they form a pace duo with real bite.

There is also an intriguing inclusion: Vincent Masekesa, a leg-spinner who is yet to debut but could be crucial on turning pitches in Bangladesh. The only uncapped player in the squad, he adds a wildcard element—something that could swing a session or two if he finds his rhythm.

Head coach Justin Sammons sees this series as a turning point. It is not just another tour for him—it is a deliberate shift into red-ball territory.

“We are very excited to be heading into a period where Test cricket will be our sole focus,” Sammons said.

“I am certain this group of players will continue to grow as individuals and as a team as they face new challenges in different conditions. The squad has been set up to give us the best balance to deal with whatever may be thrown our way. I know everyone in the squad is very determined to give their all for Zimbabwe.”

That determination will be tested in Bangladesh. The conditions will be tough. The spin will be relentless. The margin for error will be thin. But that’s exactly what makes Test cricket such a proving ground. There is no shortcut to success here—you have to earn every run, every wicket, and every hard-fought draw.

For Zimbabwe, this series is more than just two matches. It is a chance to re-establish themselves in the format that demands the most and rewards the brave. It is a moment to invest in patience, resilience, and the kind of cricket that builds legacy, not just highlight reels.

And for those of us who still believe in the magic of five-day battles, it’s a welcome return to the game as it was meant to be played.

Zimbabwe Test Squad for Bangladesh Tour:

Craig Ervine (Captain), Brian Bennett, Johnathan Campbell, Ben Curran, Trevor Gwandu, Wessly Madhevere, Wellington Masakadza, Vincent Masekesa, Nyasha Mayavo, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Victor Nyauchi, Tafadzwa Tsiga, Nicholas Welch, Sean Williams

This article was first published on The Soak Bench.