Richard Ngarava to lead Zimbabwe in Tests and ODIs, Sikandar Raza retains T20I captaincy

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Left-arm fast bowler Richard Ngarava has officially been appointed Zimbabwe's new Test and ODI captain, marking the beginning of a new leadership era for the national team. Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) confirmed the appointment on Friday, with the 27-year-old replacing veteran batter Craig Ervine, who stepped down to pave the way for the team's transitional rebuilding phase. Meanwhile, experienced all-rounder Sikandar Raza will continue to captain Zimbabwe in T20 Internationals, ensuring continuity in the shortest format.

Zimbabwe unveil new leadership group​

Zimbabwe Cricket's appointments reflect a long-term vision built around a blend of emerging talent and experienced leaders.

• Test and ODI Captain: Richard Ngarava, the leader of Zimbabwe's pace attack and one of the team's most influential figures.
• Test and ODI Vice-Captain: Brian Bennett, the 22-year-old batting all-rounder whose impressive rise in international cricket has earned him the deputy role.
• T20I Captain: Sikandar Raza, who retains the captaincy in the shortest format to provide stability and tactical continuity.

Confirming the leadership structure, ZC Chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani stated that the board closely evaluated the character and experience of the chosen leaders. “Captaincy is about far more than leading a team onto the field. It demands integrity, resilience, sound judgment, and the ability to inspire those around you.

“The Board has every confidence that Richard Ngarava, Sikandar Raza, and Josephine Nkomo possess those qualities and will lead their respective teams with distinction. We are equally confident that Brian Bennett, Nomvelo Sibanda, and the vice-captains across our national teams will provide invaluable support while continuing to grow into leadership roles of their own,” he added.

Dream Start as Captain​

Ngarava has wasted little time making an impact in his new role. His tenure began during Zimbabwe's home series against Bangladesh in Harare, where he first led the side in Test cricket before taking charge of the ODI team.

The left-arm pacer enjoyed a dream start to his ODI captaincy, guiding Zimbabwe to a thrilling 13-run victory in the second ODI at the Harare Sports Club. The win sealed the multi-match series for the hosts, with Ngarava fittingly claiming the final wicket of the match to complete a memorable performance.

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