Ben Curran has received his maiden call-up to the Zimbabwe national cricket team for the upcoming One Day International (ODI) series against Afghanistan. This selection marks a significant milestone for Curran, who is the son of former Zimbabwe cricketer Kevin Curran and the brother of England internationals Sam and Tom Curran.
A reward for domestic performance
28 years old Ben has been recognized for his outstanding performances in domestic cricket, particularly in Zimbabwe’s 50-over tournament, where he currently leads the run-scoring charts with an impressive average of 64.50. His success extends to first-class cricket, where he also tops the averages with 74.14. This call-up comes after a standout domestic season that has showcased his potential and skill on the field.
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In addition to Curran, Zimbabwe have also included Newman Nyamhuri, an 18-year-old left-arm pacer who made a mark as Zimbabwe’s highest wicket-taker during the Under-19 World Cup earlier this year. Both players have been selected to replace Faraz Akram, Brandon Mavuta and Clive Madande who is recovering from a shoulder dislocation.
Series schedule and squads
The ODI series between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan consists of three matches scheduled to begin on December 17. After the ODIs, a three-match T20I series is set to take place from December 11 to December 14 in Harare.
Zimbabwe’s ODI squad: Craig Ervine (c), Brian Bennett, Ben Curran, Joylord Gumbie, Trevor Gwandu, Tinotenda Maposa, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wellington Masakadza, Tashinga Musekiwa, Blessing Muzarabani, Dion Myers, Richard Ngarava, Newman Nyamhuri, Victor Nyauchi, Sikandar Raza, Sean Williams
Zimbabwe’s T20I squad: Sikandar Raza (c), Faraz Akram, Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl, Trevor Gwandu, Takudzwanashe Kaitano, Wessly Madhevere, Tinotenda Maposa, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wellington Masakadza, Tashinga Musekiwa, Blessing Muzarabani, Dion Myers, Richard Ngarava, Newman Nyamhuri
*The squad for the Test series, beginning on December 26, is yet to be announced.