Zimbabwe captain Craig Ervine is backing his youthful side to rise to the challenge and compete strongly against hosts Bangladesh when the first Test gets underway in Sylhet this Sunday, despite the squad’s limited experience in subcontinental conditions.
Only four members of Zimbabwe’s 15-man squad – Ervine himself, Sean Williams, Wellington Masakadza and Victor Nyauchi – have previously played a Test in Bangladesh.
But the skipper is upbeat that his charges, energised by solid preparation and a fearless attitude, can “pose a decent threat” in Sylhet.
“I think our preparations have been really good, so we’re looking forward to it,” Ervine told reporters on the eve of the match.
“Obviously, looking to tomorrow, I think we can probably expect it to be a little bit more seamer-friendly with the grass and stuff that’s on the wicket.
“We’ve had a good couple of days training in the practice nets and, going into tomorrow, we’re obviously confident.”
The series marks another step in what has become a busy year of red-ball cricket for Zimbabwe. Having played Tests against Afghanistan and Ireland at home earlier in 2025, this two-match series in Bangladesh adds to a welcome return of continuity in the longest format.
“I think this is the first year that we’ve actually got a lot of Test cricket lined up for us,” Ervine said. “It’s really exciting with the amount of Test cricket we’re going to play.
You can kind of get some sort of continuity with so many games coming up.”
The Zimbabwe skipper acknowledged that conditions in Bangladesh would be unfamiliar to many in the squad, but sees this as a crucial learning curve.
“With the group that we’ve got – you know, we don’t have a lot of experience in Bangladesh – but I think it’s a young group where you need to go and play in different conditions to mature as a cricketer.”
Zimbabwe’s squad blends a handful of experienced players, such as the returning Williams and fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani, with emerging talent eager to prove their credentials.
“Blessing Muzarabani is an exceptional bowler, and it’s always really exciting to see him hit his traps – hopefully he does that in these two Tests,” Ervine said.
“And it’s just trying to pick the brains of guys like Sean Williams and learn – what works for you, what have you done, preparation-wise and mental-wise – so that they (the younger players) can try and put that into practice.”
Ervine said Zimbabwe’s build-up to the series, both back home and in Sylhet, had covered all the bases.
“We’ve prepared exceptionally well. I don’t think there’s anything that we haven’t covered,” he said.
“So now it’s just about getting out into the middle and believing that you can execute what you’ve prepared for.
“There’s always been a lot of rivalry between Bangladesh and Zimbabwe and being in Bangladesh is obviously slightly tougher, maybe, for us – but we always feel like we have a chance.
“With the group of players that we have now, I certainly think we can pose a decent threat.”
With an eye on the long-term, Ervine stressed the importance of developing a confident, expressive playing style – especially among the less experienced players.
“I think the attitude we want to bring is obviously a no-fear attitude and a lot of confidence,” he said. “We’re playing in Bangladesh conditions – it’s something that guys aren’t particularly familiar with – but a lot of preparation gives you the confidence to go out and express yourself.”
The veteran batter is hopeful the newcomers will seize their chance to leave a mark.
“It’s a great opportunity for them to stamp their authority. Test cricket is always the toughest format to play, just because of the mental strength that you need in order to succeed,” he said.
“But I think the younger group will certainly take a lot of confidence when you do come out to Bangladesh and actually put some performances together.”
The second Test is scheduled for next week in Chattogram.
ZIMBABWE SQUAD
Craig Ervine (Captain), Brian Bennett, Johnathan Campbell, Ben Curran, Trevor Gwandu, Wessly Madhevere, Wellington Masakadza, Vincent Masekesa, Nyasha Mayavo, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Victor Nyauchi, Tafadzwa Tsiga, Nicholas Welch, Sean Williams
