The cricketing world turns its attention to Bulawayo as Zimbabwe prepares to host South Africa in a two-match Test series, set to commence on June 28. Both encounters will unfold at the historic Queen’s Sports Club, promising a thrilling contest between two nations with a shared cricketing history. Fans are buzzing with excitement, especially given the notable leadership adjustments and fresh talent eager to make their mark on both sides.
The visiting Proteas side will navigate this series without their regular Test captain, Temba Bavuma. Bavuma, who recently steered the team to a triumphant World Test Championship (WTC) title victory over formidable Australia, has been sidelined due to a left hamstring injury. In his absence, the experienced left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj will step up to assume the captaincy, leading the Proteas in this crucial away series. Maharaj’s leadership will be keenly watched as he takes the reins for the first time in a Test capacity.
On the other side, Zimbabwe will be marshalled by their seasoned campaigner, Craig Ervine. The Chevrons’ squad features some strategic recalls aimed at bolstering their lineup. Top-order batters Prince Masvaure and Takudzwanashe Kaitano make their return, expected to add depth and stability to the batting unit. Furthermore, the bowling attack will receive a welcome boost with the re-inclusion of leg-spinner Vincent Masekesa, whose variations are anticipated to pose a challenge to the South African batters.
This series offers both teams a significant opportunity. For South Africa, it’s a chance to test their squad depth and leadership under new circumstances following their WTC triumph. For Zimbabwe, it represents a valuable platform to assess their strengthened lineup against a top-tier Test nation and build momentum on home soil.
South Africa tour of Zimbabwe 2025: Fixtures
- 1st Test: June 28-July 2 at 1:30 pm IST/ 8:00 am GMT/ 10:00 am local – Queen’s Sports Club Cricket Ground, Bulawayo
- 2nd Test: July 6-July 10 at 1:30 pm IST/ 8:00 am GMT/ 10:00 am local – Queen’s Sports Club Cricket Ground, Bulawayo
Also READ: ZIM vs SA 2025 – South Africa names their playing XI for 1st Test, Dewald Brevis among the three debutants
ZIM vs SA Test series: Squads
Zimbabwe: Craig Ervine (c), Clive Madande, Wessly Madhevere, Wellington Masakadza, Tafadzwa Tsiga (wk), Vincent Masekesa, Prince Masvaure, Brian Bennett, Tanaka Chivanga, Trevor Gwandu, Takudzwanashe Kaitano, Kundai Matigimu, Blessing Muzarabani, Newman Nyamhuri, Nick Welch, Sean Williams
South Africa: Keshav Maharaj (c), David Bedingham, Corbin Bosch, Matthew Breetzke, Dewald Brevis, Codi Yusuf, Tony de Zorzi, Kwena Maphaka, Wiaan Mulder, Lhuan-dre Pretorius (wk), Lesego Senokwane, Prenelan Subrayen, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Zubayr Hamza
ZIM vs SA Test series: Broadcast and Live Streaming details
- India: Fancode app and website
- Zimbabwe: ZBC TV
- South Africa: SuperSport (Channel 212), SuperSport Cricket; DSTV app
Also READ: Cricket South Africa announces squad for T20I tri-series against New Zealand and Zimbabwe; star CSK batter earns call-up
