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Key Takeaways
- 1Sikandar Raza captains a mix of veterans like Cremer and young guns for T20WC 2026.
- 2Muzarabani's return strengthens pace attack post-injury layoff.
- 3Squad's spin depth suits subcontinent conditions, eyeing upsets against top teams.
"Zimbabwe have confirmed its 15-man squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, set to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from 7 February to 8 March. "
Sikandar Raza Captains Zimbabwe's Charge into T20 World Cup 2026
Zimbabwe's cricket board has announced a well-rounded 15-player roster for the upcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, hosted across India and Sri Lanka from early February. After dominating the Africa Qualifier without a single loss, the Chevrons are poised to make amends for their 2024 qualification miss.
Sikandar Raza takes the helm, bringing his explosive all-round prowess to the fore. His blistering 33-ball T20I ton—tying for the second-fastest ever—underscores his potential to dismantle bowling attacks single-handedly.
Veteran Wisdom Meets Emerging Firepower
The squad blends seasoned campaigners with hungry talents. Graeme Cremer, the 39-year-old leg-spin maestro, returns after a seven-year international break, fresh off a tri-series stint in Pakistan where he snared wickets economically. His tactical nous from past captaincy could prove invaluable on subcontinental pitches that reward spin.
Pacer Blessing Muzarabani stages a comeback too, overcoming a back issue that sidelined him recently. Alongside Richard Ngarava and Bradley Evans, he bolsters a potent seam unit capable of exploiting swing-friendly conditions.
Key batters like Ryan Burl, Tadiwanashe Marumani, and Clive Madande offer middle-order stability, while all-rounders Brian Bennett and Tinotenda Maposa add depth. The full lineup: Sikandar Raza (c), Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl, Graeme Cremer, Bradley Evans, Clive Madande, Tinotenda Maposa, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wellington Masakadza, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Blessing Muzarabani, Dion Myers, Richard Ngarava, Brendan Taylor.
'This group has the hunger and skill to compete with the best,' Raza might echo, drawing from his recent form.
Historically, Zimbabwe has struggled in T20 World Cups, but this mix echoes their 2016 semi-final run under Hamilton Masakadza—spin-heavy and resilient. Facing group foes like Australia will test their mettle, yet Raza's leadership could spark an upset or two.
Expect Zimbabwe to lean on spin in Sri Lanka's dusty tracks, with Muzarabani targeting early breakthroughs. As preparations intensify, the Chevrons eye a deep tournament run, potentially reshaping African cricket's global footprint.
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