Zimbabwe announce T20 World Cup 2026 squad, former captain included

Zimbabwe have announced their 15-member squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 which is slated to start from February 7. What caught everyone's eyes was, Graeme Cremer, former Zimbabwe captain, who has been named in Zimbabwe's T20 World Cup 2026 squad. The 39-year-old leg-spinner recently ended a seven-year hiatus from international cricket, making his return during the October tri-series in Pakistan. Joining him in the squad is spearhead Blessing Muzarabani, who returns from a back injury to bolster a pace attack led by multi-format captain Richard Ngarava.

Graeme Cremer named in Zimbabwe's T20 World Cup 2026

The batting lineup features Clive Madande, who secured his spot after a dominant domestic season where he averaged 76.00 with a strike rate of 138.18. Veteran wicketkeeper Brendan Taylor also makes the cut following his own comeback earlier this year. While Taylor’s overall stats since returning show a strike rate of 144.25, his form has been inconsistent; nearly half of his recent runs came in a single explosive innings against Botswana, leaving his remaining average at a modest 12.80.

ALSO READ: Big move before IPL 2026 as former title winners lock Pune as home venue

Sikandar Raza to lead Zimbabwe's pack

Under the leadership of Sikandar Raza, Zimbabwe boasts a well-rounded bowling unit. Muzarabani and Ngarava provide the firepower in the seam department, while the spin attack relies on the experience of Cremer and Wellington Masakadza. The only notable omission from the recent tri-series roster is left-arm seamer Newman Nyamhuri, as the selectors opted for a more seasoned group for the global stage.

Zimbabwe has been drawn into Group B and will face a challenging path against Australia, Sri Lanka, Ireland, and Oman. All of their group-stage matches will be held in Sri Lanka, with their tournament opener scheduled against Oman on February 9.

Zimbabwe squad for T20 World Cup 2026

Sikandar Raza (capt), Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl, Graeme Cremer, Brad Evans, Clive Madande, Tinotenda Maposa, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wellington Masakadza, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Blessing Muzarabani, Dion Myers, Richard Ngarava, Brendan Taylor

Besides Zimbabwe, England, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Australia and India have revealed their respective squad for the upcoming showpiece tournament.