Veteran leg-spinner and former captain, Graeme Cremer has made a sensational comeback to international cricket after he was named in national squad for the upcoming three-match Twenty20 International (T20I) series against visiting Afghanistan.
The 39-year-old, who came out of retirement barely a couple of months ago, is the only change in the 15-man squad that won the ICC T20 World Cup qualifiers early this month.
The three-match series, scheduled for Harare Sports Club on October 29, October 31, and November 2, will be an emotional moment for Cremer.
It will mark his first international appearance since March 2018. His last outing was the crucial One Day International defeat to the UAE that cost Zimbabwe a spot in the 2019 World Cup—a match that led to his subsequent international retirement and a family move to the UAE.
Cremer’s return is a major talking point in Zimbabwean cricket. His recent form on the domestic scene, following his comeback to the sport, has clearly impressed the selectors, who are keen to bring his deep experience back into the national setup as the crucial T20 World Cup build-up begins.
Cremer boasts a respectable T20I record, having played 29 matches and bagged 35 wickets, with best figures of 3 for 11.
Captain Sikandar Raza will lead a settled, balanced outfit that combines seasoned campaigners with dynamic young prospects.
The core of the team remains strong, with Blessing Muzarabani and Richard Ngarava spearheading the fast-bowling unit. Experienced batsman and wicketkeeper Brendan Taylor retains his place as he continues his own international comeback.
The young talents who shone during the Africa Qualifier—Brian Bennett, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Brad Evans, and Tashinga Musekiwa—have all kept their spots, signaling the selectors’ confidence in the emerging generation.
Notably, all-rounder Sean Williams remains unavailable as he continues to attend to personal matters.
The T20I series against a strong Afghanistan side is viewed by ZC as a vital step in preparing the team for the 2026 global showpiece, with the surprising return of Cremer adding a fascinating element to the preparation.
ZIMBABWE SQUAD FOR T20I SERIES VERSUS AFGHANISTAN:
Sikandar Raza (Captain), 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.
