Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo, Zimpapers Sports Hub
A NEW chapter has opened for Zimbabwe Cricket with left arm fast bowler Richard Ngarava appointed the Chevrons’ new One Day International and Test captain, a decision that signals both trust in experience and belief in the future.
Ngarava, one of Zimbabwe’s standout pace bowlers of the modern era, steps into the role after years as a core figure in the dressing room and on the field. He replaces veteran batter Craig Ervine, who has stepped down after guiding the side through a demanding rebuilding phase.
Brian Bennett has been named vice-captain.
The appointments were confirmed at the Zimbabwe Cricket Board’s fourth quarter meeting held in Harare on Friday, formally ushering in a new leadership group for the national side.
Zimbabwe Cricket chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani welcomed the changes and paid tribute to both the incoming and outgoing leaders.
“Ngarava has shown remarkable growth as a player and leader over the years. He commands respect within the dressing room and has consistently delivered for Zimbabwe across all formats. We believe he is ready to lead the team into its next chapter,” said Mukuhlani.
The ZC boss also outlined the thinking behind Bennett’s elevation.
“Brian’s appointment as vice-captain reflects our confidence in his cricketing intelligence, maturity and long-term leadership potential. He represents the future of Zimbabwean cricket.
“Craig Ervine led with professionalism, resilience and dignity during a challenging period. ZC is deeply grateful for his contribution to the team’s stability and progress.”
Ngarava, who made his international debut in 2017, has long been a pillar of Zimbabwe’s bowling attack. The left arm quick has represented the country in Tests, ODIs and T20Is and holds a unique place in the record books as the first Zimbabwean to claim 100 T20I wickets.
His career has been marked by decisive moments, including match winning five wicket hauls in both Test and ODI cricket and a central role in Zimbabwe’s first home Test victory in 12 years.
Bennett, meanwhile, continues a rapid rise that has marked him out as one of the country’s brightest young all rounders. After captaining the Under 19 side, he broke into the senior team across all formats before the age of 21.
His recent milestones include Test and ODI centuries, the fastest Test hundred by a Zimbabwean and a series of eye catching performances in both red ball and limited overs cricket.
Zimbabwe Cricket said the appointments are part of a broader long term strategy aimed at building a competitive and sustainable national team.
Bongani Ndlovu