Graeme Cremer, the ex-Zimbabwe captain and leggie, is back in the domestic cricket circuit in his country and is also available for international selection, seven years after his last game for Zimbabwe. The 38-year-old who captained Zimbabwe between 2016 and 2018 is now up for consideration for a place at the T20 World Cup Africa Regional Qualifier at home in September.

Cremer last represented Zimbabwe in March 2018, prior to leaving the sport to pursue golf and the conducive lifestyle of the UAE, after relocating there with his family, where his wife Merna works as a pilot. Despite his time away from Zimbabwe, Cremer remained close to cricket via coaching, including a stint at the Rajasthan Royals Academy in Dubai.

Back with a Bang in Domestic Cricket

The former international cricketer's return to the game has been nothing short of remarkable. Bacon currently plays for defending champions Takashinga Patriots 1 in the 45-over National Premier League in Zimbabwe, and after just two matches, he has risen to the top of the wicket-takers' leader board. Cremer's return started on August 3 against Queens Sports Club in Kwekwe, in familiar territory. He took 4 for 43 as Takashinga defended 263 for 6 to win comfortably by 134 runs.

“It’s amazing being back,” Cremer told 3-mob.com after the match. “Kwekwe was my home ground for many years, so it was great walking out and being part of Takashinga, which is such a prestigious club. They welcomed me into the team, and it was an amazing team environment.”

ALSO SEE: 3 strong reasons Sanju Samson should stay with Rajasthan Royals for IPL 2026

Reuniting with Brendan Taylor

That match also saw Cremer reunited with close friend and former teammate Brendan Taylor, who scored 61 as he fine-tuned his own comeback after serving a three-and-a-half-year ban for breaching the ICC’s anti-corruption code.

“We are close friends, myself and Brendan, so it was an amazing feeling being on the field with him again,” Cremer said. “Just how we communicate because we have played so much cricket together, it really helps.”

Zimbabwe’s Eyes on Major Tournaments

Zimbabwe Cricket’s announcement of the return of two of their most experienced players comes with serious ambition. The Africa Regional Qualifier will take place from September 26 to October 4, with the participation of eight teams, with the top two teams qualifying for the T20 World Cup. 

Beyond that, Zimbabwe wants to qualify for the 2026 T20 World Cup, as well as the 2027 ODI World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Namibia. The team missed out on the previous global matches, including the most recent T20 World Cup, after a poor loss against Uganda, and have not appeared in a 50-over World Cup since 2015. 

With 23 Test matches and 69 limited-overs internationals under his belt, Cremer's experience and wicket-taking ability could inspire the rest of the side and push Zimbabwe into the major competitions again.

The former Zimbabwe captain, Brendan Taylor, is ready to return to international cricket during the second Test of the two-match home series against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo, after serving a three-and-a-half-year ban for breaching the ICC’s anti-corruption code. His sanction ended on July 25 and will feature from August 07.

Taylor, who has 2320 runs in 68 red-ball innings, hasn’t played since retiring abruptly in September 2021. Due to his ban, he wasn’t even able to train with the national and domestic squads. However, he had facilities to practice with the elite interdependent school in Harare and has felt more fit than ever. His eyes will be on the upcoming New Zealand Tests. 

See Also: Star SRH player becomes new number one T20I batter in ICC rankings

‘He'll be available for the second Test. But I also know how hard he's worked in his capacity - especially over the last eight, ten [or] 12 months - for this to happen. I'm very excited to have him come back into the space in the next few days, and looking forward to what he has to contribute towards the team and the group.’ Zimbabwe captain, Craig Ervine, expressed.

Twitter reacts to Brendan Taylor’s comeback to Zimbabwe side after three-and-half year ban

‘I've been humbled properly. I look forward to really just adding value, which I probably didn't do to the best of my ability when I was there before.’ The veteran right-handed batter expressed, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. He has celebrated six centuries in the longest format, including the 105* against Bangladesh, after their six-year self-imposed ban was lifted in 2011.

Zimbabwe has already named the 16-member squad for the two games, where they have kept one first-choice wicket-keeper batter in Tafadzwa Tsiga, who started the opening game of the fixture. Taylore makes his return for the side in a busy period of seven Tests in the year. Even though he won’t feature for the T20 World Cup qualifiers, there is a strong expectation of him turning up for the home ODI World Cup 2027.

🚨 39-YEAR-OLD BRENDAN TAYLOR RETURNING TO CRICKET 🚨

- He is set to play the 2nd Test against New Zealand after serving a 3 & half year ban for the Breaching ICC Anti Corruption Code. [Espn Cricinfo] pic.twitter.com/hiX1m2gQgf

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) July 30, 2025 

Brendan Taylor is scheduled to make a return. We are going to witness the greatest come back in the history of cricket 🥵🥵🔥😭 pic.twitter.com/HDIoM5CPk0

— Mayor Of You know What🌴 (@bxllyville) July 29, 2025

Here we Go. Brendan Taylor is back https://t.co/JD5X7jZfG1 pic.twitter.com/az3M9qjRaZ

— Sir Brendon Sann (@iamsirbreezy) July 29, 2025

Breaking

Brendan Taylor has joined the Zimbabwe National Men's Team in Bulawayo.

There is no confirmation on whether he will play or not, but I believe him being part of the team in Bulawayo is good enough to encourage others! pic.twitter.com/a7MaFGBnWc

— Chairman Bans (@The_Bans) July 29, 2025

Craig Ervine says he is excited to have Brendan Taylor back with the 🇿🇼🏏 test side. He expects BT's experience to be useful against NZ🇳🇿, although he is only available for the second test. pic.twitter.com/1PyLacCQXH

— Undisputed🎙️📺 (@Mr_Tich) July 30, 2025

New Zealand have announced their 15-member squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo. Fast bowler Matt Fisher, who has used his raw pace to pick up 51 first-class wickets in 25 innings at an average of 24.11, has earned his maiden call-up for the series. Their former captain, Kane Williamson, however, remains unavailable for the series. 

Williamson will feature on the Hundred for the London Spirit, having signed a deal with Middlesex. The off-spin bowling all-rounder, Michael Bracewell, who is currently in the USA for the MLC 2025, will also not make his trip to the country. For him, it’s the same issue, given that he signed a deal with the Southern Brave.

Fast bowlers Kyle Jamieson and Ben Sears will also not be part of the Zimbabwe series. The former took a personal break, awaiting the birth of his first child, while Sears is on his route to recover from a side injury, which will require another one to rehab.

New Zealand announce inexperienced squad for Zimbabwe trip

With both the red-ball clashes not being part of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle, the Kiwi coach, Rob Walter, respected the decision of both Williamson and Bracewell. He also reckoned that it would be a great chance for the young players to take the next step in their red-ball career.

SEE ALSO: ENG U19 vs IND U19, 5th Youth ODI: Key performances and major highlights and key performances

Jacob Duffy is another uncapped player in the squad alongside Fisher. He is currently the number one-ranked T20I bowler. Will O’Rourke, Matt Henry, and Nathan Smith will complete the seam attack as they look to start a successful era after Tim Southee and Trent Boult. Ajaz Patel, who missed a huge chunk of his career, will link up with Mitchell Santner and Glenn Phillips in the spin attack.

Davon Conway, after getting dropped from the T20I tri-series, has returned to the longest format. Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Conway, and Phillips will join the squad after the end of the MLC 2025. The first Test of the series will be played on July 31, just five days after the end of the T20I tri-nation series.

New Zealand Test squad for the Zimbabwe series

Tom Latham (captain), Tom Blundell (wk), Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Matt Fisher, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Will O'Rourke, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Nathan Smith, Will Young.

Pace bowler Blessing Muzarabani has added himself in the list of Zimbabwe's quckest bowlers to reach 50 Test wickets, achieving the milestone in only his 11th match and 18th innings. The lanky paceman reached the milestone in Zimbabwe’s on-going test series thus making a proud moment for himself and the entire Zimbabwean cricket fraternity. 

Muzarabani’s record places him in front of some whose names are etched in history when looking at Zimbabwe’s bowling records. He caught up with Heath Streak in terms of number of matches (11), but did so in fewer innings, further proof of his burgeoning impact and consistency with red ball. In a competition where wickets tend to be at a premium for Zimbabwe, Muzarabani’s speed and accuracy have marked him out as significant asset in recent times. 

The milestone also reflects the development of the 27-year-old as the leader of Zimbabwe’s bowling attack. In his comeback to Test cricket, Muzarabani has displayed impressive control, fitness and an ability to strike at important times which makes him an asset across formats. 

ALSO READ: After ODIs, Najmul Hossain Shanto shockingly quits Test captaincy post SL vs BAN 2025 Tests

Fastest to 50 Test Wickets for Zimbabwe (by Matches Played)

Muzarabani’s elevation is a great relief as Zimbabwe try to restore Test cricket reputation. He is not just coming off with the ball but in that process and with such a clear desire and clarity of what he wants, he’s egging on younger players in that side, to believe that you can achieve that  even in a team not playing as many Tests as the others.

His mission has only just begun, but as of right now his record speaks for itself. On this path, Blessing Muzarabani could go on to become one of the greatest fast bowlers Zimbabwe has ever produced and an inspiration to the generation that’s coming next. 

Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) has announced that the Sri Lanka men’s team will tour the country for a much-awaited white-ball series, which will be played entirely at the Harare Sports Club.

According to the schedule, Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka will play two ODIs on August 29 and 31. After that, they will face each other in three T20Is on September 3, 6, and 7. The T20I matches will be important for Zimbabwe as they prepare to host the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Regional Final tournament from September 19 to October 4.

This series is part of a very busy time for Zimbabwe. They are set to play South Africa in two Test matches in Bulawayo starting this weekend. After that, they will take part in a T20I tri-series against South Africa and New Zealand, followed by two Test matches against New Zealand starting on August 3.

Also Read - South Africa Reveal T20I Squad for Tri-Series vs New Zealand, Zimbabwe: Fresh Faces In, Seniors Rested

“We are happy to confirm Sri Lanka’s visit to Zimbabwe for what we expect to be an exciting and competitive series,” said ZC Managing Director Givemore Makoni. 

“Matches between our two countries have always given fans entertaining cricket, and this tour comes at an important time for our team as we prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup qualifying matches,” he added.

Zimbabwe to host Sri Lanka for limited-overs series

Details 🔽https://t.co/eOzNnMkm9n

— Zimbabwe Cricket (@ZimCricketv) June 26, 2025

The T20I part of the series is very important for Zimbabwe, as it will help them prepare for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Regional Final, which will be held in Zimbabwe from September 19 to October 4.

These matches against Sri Lanka come just before the T20 World Cup Africa Regional Qualifiers. Zimbabwe last played in the Men’s T20 World Cup in 2022 in Australia, where they were knocked out in the early stages. Because of poor performances in qualifying matches, Zimbabwe failed to reach the next edition of the T20 World Cup, held in the West Indies and the USA. They also missed out on the 2019 and 2023 ODI World Cups.

By not qualifying for the 2023 ODI World Cup, which took place in India, Zimbabwe also lost the chance to qualify for the 2025 Champions Trophy.

Sri Lanka last visited Zimbabwe in 2023 for the ODI World Cup Qualifiers, but they haven’t played a full bilateral series there since 2016. Currently, Sri Lanka is hosting Bangladesh for a full tour that includes two Tests, three ODIs, and three T20Is. Zimbabwe are also expected to host Afghanistan for an all-format series later this year.

Zimbabwe Women’s cricket is on the cusp of a landmark chapter as they gear up for their maiden appearance in the ICC Women’s Championship. Their historic entry into the tournament will begin with a white-ball tour of New Zealand in February-March 2026, marking a major stride in their quest to compete at the top level of the global game.

The three-match ODI series, scheduled for March 5, 8, and 11 at the scenic University of Otago Oval in Dunedin, will mark Zimbabwe’s debut in the ICC Women’s Championship – the premier qualification pathway for the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2029. This comes after the Championship was expanded from 10 to 11 teams in November 2024, making room for Zimbabwe to join the elite group.

Prior to the ODIs, Zimbabwe will face New Zealand in a three-match T20I series in Hamilton on February 25, 27, and March 1. The T20Is will serve as vital preparation and also represent their first-ever bilateral meetings against the White Ferns in the shortest format.

Zimbabwe Women Embrace Historic ICC Championship Debut with Eye on World Cup Qualification

Zimbabwe’s inclusion is being celebrated as a significant breakthrough, both symbolically and structurally, for the development of women’s cricket in the country. Givemore Makoni, Managing Director of Zimbabwe Cricket, described the occasion as a “proud and exciting moment”: “This is not only a testament to how far our women’s cricket has come, but also a strong endorsement of our vision and investment in developing the women’s game,” said Makoni. “Being part of such a prestigious competition provides our players with a platform to grow, compete, and ultimately qualify for the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup.”

ALSO SEE: PCB Begins Talks with Cricket Australia for Tours of Shaheens, U19 & Women’s Teams: Report

Head Coach Walter Chawaguta echoed similar sentiments, emphasising the importance of competitive exposure: “The tour to New Zealand – and before that, the series in Ireland – gives us crucial experience in tough conditions. These are the kinds of opportunities we’ve worked towards for years.”

Zimbabwe’s participation in the 2025-2029 Women’s Championship cycle will see them play eight three-match ODI series – four at home and four away. After New Zealand, they are also set to tour India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, while hosting South Africa, West Indies, Sri Lanka, and Ireland.

Before their New Zealand tour, Zimbabwe will travel to Ireland for a limited-overs series in July 2025, featuring three T20Is in Dublin (from July 20) and two ODIs in Belfast (July 26 and 28). The series will serve as a vital test run ahead of their Championship debut.

Schedule: Zimbabwe Women’s Tour of New Zealand 2026

T20I Series (Hamilton – Seddon Park)

• 1st T20I – February 25, 2026
• 2nd T20I – February 27, 2026
• 3rd T20I – March 1, 2026

ODI Series (Dunedin – University of Otago Oval)

• 1st ODI – March 5, 2026
• 2nd ODI – March 8, 2026
• 3rd ODI – March 11, 2026

This tour to New Zealand isn’t just about matches it’s about Zimbabwe Women stepping onto the global stage with belief, ambition, and the chance to script history. Their journey toward the 2029 ICC Women’s World Cup begins here.

England—565/6d

Zimbabwe—265 & 255 (f/o)

England confirmed their first victory of the summer by defeating Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge, Nottingham, by an innings and 45 runs. The visitors had no match for the hosts, and the one-off Test concluded on Day 3. Shoaib Bashir, with 6 wickets in the second innings and three in the first, received the man of the match award. 

Zimbabwe started Day 3 with an all-attacking approach. Ben Curran and Sean Williams, the combination of young and experience, was top of their strategy to counter attack english bowling attacks until the launch. 38-year-old Williams played some pure copy book shot which warmed the match more. The right hander departed after a well fought 88 and Curran 37. 

After a sunny Day 2, Day 3 was covered with heavy clouds, accompanied by a strong breeze, perfect conditions for seamers. But it was Bashir who drove the momentum of the match towards England. Pacers like Josh Tongue, Sam Cook went for some expensive overs against an attacking Zimbabwe. Assertive approaches from Sikandar Raza (60) and Wesley Madhevere (31) entertained the visitors at the Trent Bridge. 

Read More: How to buy T20 Mumbai League tickets— know every details

A dominating performance ahead of the series against India

Like skipper Ben Stokes, other England players were hungry to grab their first win of the summer. Harry Brook on the second slip took a stunner. Right-handed Madhevere misjudged Stokes' delivery and got a thick edge. The ball was about to travel high over the slip region when Brook jumped at the right time, stretched his body, and grabbed the ball in his right arm safely for an unbelievable catch. 

England won by an innings and 45 runs in the historic Test match against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge

Match Details 👉 https://t.co/cojkDo7BCj#ENGvZIM #ExperienceZimbabwe pic.twitter.com/P2PIc0xWCM

— Zimbabwe Cricket (@ZimCricketv) May 24, 2025

This authoritative win against Zimbabwe will provide extra mental strength for their upcoming 5-match Test assignment against India, starting from June 20 at the Yorkshire Cricket Ground.

The Africa Cricket Association (ACA), the continental body for cricket in Africa is gearing up to revive perhaps the most dynamic rivalries of world cricket. The Afro-Asia Cup is all set to return to the grand scheme of things for the first time since its final edition which took place in India in 2007. The tournament will comprise a series of white-ball matches that will be played between the Africa Playing Xl and Asia Playing Xl. Players based on merit will be chosen from major countries in Africa and Asia. However, a major chunk of talent will originate from India, Pakistan, and South Africa. 

ACA conducted its AGM meeting on Sunday where they formed a six-person committee to bring about institutional reforms and drive the number of opportunities for the players from the continent. One of the key goals of this organization is to establish ties with the Asia Cricket Council (ACC) and discuss initiatives such as the Afro-Asia Cup which can open up a wide array of cross-continental cricket opportunities for the wider region. 

A look into the tournament's past

The inaugural edition of the Afro-Asia Cup was held way back in 2005 in South Africa and later in 2007 in India. The third edition of the tournament was supposed to take place in Kenya in 2009 but the plan never materialized. The 2005 Asia squad was led by Inzamam-ul-Haq whereas Shaun Pollock took charge of the Africa squad. That squad featured some of the big names in world cricket at that time including but not limited to AB de Villiers, Jacques Kallis, Dale Steyn, Steve Tikolo, and Mark Boucher. Asia Xl on the other hand also featured some major heavyweights including the likes of Kumar Sangakkara, Virender Sehwag, Anil Kumble, Shoaib Akhtar, and Shahid Afridi.

At that time, both India and Pakistan shared friendly geopolitical relations which in turn had a positive impact on the cricketing rivalries between the two nations. But all of that changed when the infamous 2008 terror attacks took place in Mumbai. Since that tragic incident, both nations have been at odds with each other and have not engaged in participating in bilateral series. 

But if the third edition of the Afor-Asia Cup is to take place, then we may see the Indian and Pakistani players in action alongside each other. Considering the strained political ties between the two countries, such a sight will be quite a spectacle for the fans and the media houses to cherish.

How will the Afro-Asia Cup positively impact Zimbabwe cricket 

Tavengwa Mukuhlani, interim chair of the ACA, comments that apart from providing much-needed entertainment to the cricket fans, the tournament would also bring in a lot of revenue which the country so desperately requires. Mukuhlani, who is also the Zimbabwe Cricket Chair revealed that he is currently having conversations with his Asian counterparts (ACC) on getting this tournament back to its glory days. 

Mukuhlani makes it clear that the players from his country will participate in the tournament along with their South African neighbors. He believes that the presence of Zimbabwean and South African players adds a layer of versatility to the tournament which then opens up new doors for the young and upcoming cricketers to hone new skills and advance their level of cricket.  

See also: India officially bids to host Summer Olympics 2036

In a strategic move that has ignited hope across the nation, Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) has appointed former West Indies captain Courtney Walsh as a consultant for the national women’s team. This appointment comes at a crucial time as the team gears up for the Women’s T20 World Cup qualifiers set for April 2024 in the UAE. Zimbabwe aims to carve a niche for itself on the international stage, having never participated in the Women’s T20 World Cup before.

Courtney Walsh’s Profile

Courtney Walsh, a name synonymous with cricketing greatness, holds a legendary status thanks to his record-breaking stint as a fast bowler. With 519 Test wickets to his name, Walsh’s transition into coaching has been marked by significant achievements, including leading the West Indies women’s team to the semi-finals of the Women’s ODI World Cup in 2022. His wealth of experience is expected to bring a transformative touch to the Zimbabwean side.

See Also: Rashid Khan threatens to pullout of BBL after Australia postpone Afghanistan T20I

The Role of a Consultant

As a technical consultant, Walsh’s role will encompass strategic guidance and mentoring. His main task is to refine the team’s techniques and to instill a competitive spirit that could elevate their performance during critical matches.

Historically, Zimbabwe’s women’s cricket has faced numerous challenges, from inadequate funding to limited international exposure. Despite these hurdles, the team has shown remarkable resilience and potential in regional tournaments.

The Importance of the T20 Women’s World Cup

For Zimbabwe, qualifying for the Women’s T20 World Cup is not just about making a mark in women’s cricket but also about inspiring a new generation of female athletes in the country. The event promises to put Zimbabwe on the global sports map, potentially unlocking more support and recognition for women’s sports.

Current Team Dynamics

Zimbabwe’s squad boasts a mix of experienced campaigners and promising newcomers. Key players who are expected to play a central role include the team captain and the leading all-rounder, whose performances in regional games have been noteworthy.

Support from Zimbabwe Cricket

ZC’s Managing Director, Givemore Makoni, has expressed optimism about Walsh’s involvement, highlighting the positive expectations surrounding his appointment and the future of women’s cricket in Zimbabwe.

“We count ourselves fortunate and privileged to be able to bring in Courtney as a technical consultant for our campaign at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier in Abu Dhabi. He is one of the world’s greatest cricketers and we believe his experience at the highest level of the women’s game in particular will boost our chances of securing one of the two spots up for grabs at the main global showpiece later in the year,” ZC Managing Director Givemore Makoni said.