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Zimbabwe announce new captain for Tests and ODIs; Richard Ngarava replaces Craig Ervine

Debashis Sarangi

Ngarava replaces Ervine as ZIM captain [Source: AFP]Ngarava replaces Ervine as ZIM captain [Source: AFP]

In a significant development, the Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) has appointed Richard Ngarava as the new captain of the men's Test and ODI teams. The fast bowler replaces Craig Ervine, who steps down from his role after leading Zimbabwe through a tough transition phase. Meanwhile, young batter Brian Bennett will serve as Zimbabwe's vice-captain, having been named Ngarava's deputy. 

Richard Ngarava appointed Zimbabwe captain in Tests and ODIs

The Zimbabwe Cricket board, on Saturday, named Richard Ngarava as the team's new captain in Tests and ODIs. The left-arm fast bowler has been a regular member of the Zimbabwe cricket team across formats. 

In eleven Tests, Ngarava has bagged 25 wickets, including two four-wicket hauls and a fifer, at an average of 38.6. Regarding his ODI career, the left-arm seamer has 70 wickets under his belt across 55 matches, having formed a potent opening bowling duo with Blessing Muzarabani. 

"Ngarava has shown remarkable growth as a player and leader over the years. 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," ZC Chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani said in his statement. 

Interestingly, Ngarava becomes the second fast bowler after the legendary Heath Streak to lead Zimbabwe in Test cricket. 

Meanwhile, Brian Bennett has been trusted with the leadership duties after grabbing the limelight with a string of impactful performances across formats. In his brief career, Bennett has already established himself as a vital cog in the Zimbabwean setup in all three formats.

“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. Craig Ervine led with professionalism, resilience and dignity during a challenging period. ZC is deeply grateful for his contribution to the team’s stability and progress," Mukuhlani added. 

Talking about Brian Bennett's Test career, the young right-handed batter has struck 509 runs in eleven matches at an average of 29.94. He has been much more impactful in white-ball cricket, showcasing his ability to decimate bowling attacks with a bold and fearless batting approach.