Zimbabwe Name Sikandar Raza as ODI Captain for Australia Series

Zimbabwe have named an experienced squad for their upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia, with Sikandar Raza set to captain the side in the absence of regular skipper Richard Ngarava.

The series begins on September 15 in Harare, with the remaining two matches scheduled for September 18 and 20. It will be Australia's first visit to Zimbabwe in 12 years and the first ODI meeting between the two sides since 2022.

Ngarava has been ruled out as he continues his recovery from a lower-back injury. The fast bowler missed Zimbabwe's recent T20I tri-series in Namibia, and his condition could keep him sidelined beyond the Australia series. Zimbabwe are scheduled to travel to the UAE in October for a tri-series involving Afghanistan and Bangladesh, followed by two Tests against Afghanistan.

In Ngarava's absence, Blessing Muzarabani is expected to lead Zimbabwe's pace attack, with Brad Evans and Newman Nyamhuri also included. Tanaka Chivanga remains unavailable because of an Achilles injury.

Brendan Taylor returns

Veteran batter and wicketkeeper Brendan Taylor has been recalled to the ODI squad. Taylor will share wicketkeeping responsibilities with Tadiwanashe Marumani.

The 39-year-old last played an ODI for Zimbabwe against Sri Lanka in August 2025. His return means Clive Madande misses out on the squad.

Taylor's experience will be particularly valuable alongside Craig Ervine in the middle order, as Zimbabwe look to reduce their reliance on young batting all-rounder Brian Bennett.

Cremer set for ODI comeback

Legspinner Graeme Cremer is also set to make his return to ODI cricket after nearly eight years. His last ODI appearance came in 2018.

Cremer returned to international cricket last year during Zimbabwe's campaign to qualify for the 2026 T20 World Cup and is now available across all three formats. His experience will add depth to Zimbabwe's bowling attack.

Zimbabwe also defeated Australia during the 2026 T20 World Cup on their way to the Super Eight stage, a result that helped them secure automatic qualification for the 2028 edition.

With Raza leading a squad featuring a blend of experience and emerging talent, Zimbabwe will hope to put up a strong challenge against Australia in the three-match series in Harare.

Zimbabwe squad for Australia ODIs

• Sikandar Raza (captain)
• Ben Curran
• Blessing Muzarabani
• Brad Evans
• Brendan Taylor
• Brian Bennett
• Craig Ervine
• Ernest Masuku
• Graeme Cremer
• Innocent Kaia
• Newman Nyamhuri
• Ryan Burl
• Tadiwanashe Marumani
• Wellington Masakadza
• Wessly Madhevere