Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) has named Richard Ngarava as the new captain of the national Test and ODI sides, taking over from Craig Ervine, who stepped down from the role.
The 27-year-old left-arm pacer, who made his international debut in 2017, has been a mainstay across all formats and is Zimbabwe’s leading T20I wicket-taker, claiming 108 scalps in 90 matches at an economy rate of 7.30. Ngarava has also gained valuable franchise experience in the ILT20, Lanka Premier League, and Bangladesh Premier League, further bolstering his leadership credentials.
Brian Bennett, 22, has been appointed as vice-captain. A dynamic allrounder, Bennett has already made waves with centuries across formats and is regarded as one of Zimbabwe’s brightest young talents. “Brian’s appointment reflects our confidence in his cricketing intelligence, maturity, and long-term leadership potential,” ZC chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani said. “He represents the future of Zimbabwean cricket.”
Mukuhlani praised Ngarava’s growth and leadership qualities, noting his ability to command respect within the dressing room. “He has consistently delivered for Zimbabwe across all formats. We believe he is ready to lead the team into its next chapter,” he added.
Outgoing captain Craig Ervine was commended for his service, having led Zimbabwe through a challenging period with professionalism and resilience. “ZC is deeply grateful for his contribution to the team’s stability and progress,” Mukuhlani said.
Ngarava has featured in 11 Tests and 145 white-ball internationals, picking up 25 wickets in the longest format and 70 in ODIs at an average of 30.68. Bennett, meanwhile, has already made a mark with 509 Test runs and a record-breaking century, alongside 348 runs in 50-over cricket, including a career-best 169 against Ireland.
With Ngarava at the helm and Bennett as his deputy, Zimbabwe cricket looks set for a new era as they prepare for upcoming international challenges.
