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After a 22-year exile, Zimbabwe is set to face England in a highly anticipated Test match, marking a significant moment in the cricket calendar. This encounter serves as a tantalizing appetizer before England’s main course of 10 regime-defining matches later this year, including the challenges posed by India and the Ashes.
The last time these two teams met in a Test match, England’s James Anderson was still a young player, and their current managing director, Rob Key, was a middle-order batter. In fact, Shoaib Bashir, England’s lead spinner, wasn’t even born at that time. The passage of time has seen significant changes in both teams, with Zimbabwe experiencing periods of suspension, talent drain, and fluctuations in fortune.
Despite being locked out of the World Test Championship, Zimbabwe has managed to schedule 11 Tests in 2025, matched only by Australia. Their recent series draw in Bangladesh showcased their developing skills, and this match against England presents another crucial opportunity for them to press for more regular opportunities.
Zimbabwe’s head coach, Justin Sammons, acknowledges the significance of this match, stating that it’s a privilege for his team to play against stronger opposition and test their skills. “We want to be challenged against the best and see where we stand,” he said. “It’s the arena where your skills are tested, which is massive in terms of us growing and developing.” Sammons expressed confidence that his team can compete and noted that anything can happen in the game of cricket.
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