Zimbabwe vs South Africa: The highly anticipated Test series between Zimbabwe and South Africa is set to kick off, with the first Test beginning on June 28, 2025. This two-match series provides a crucial platform for both nations, with South Africa looking to maintain their strong Test form after recently winning the ICC World Test Championship, while Zimbabwe aims to make a significant statement on home soil.
Zimbabwe vs South Africa Match Details
Zimbabwe vs South Africa Match Preview
Zimbabwe will be hosting South Africa in what promises to be a challenging yet exciting series for them. Led by veteran batter Craig Ervine, Zimbabwe will be looking to leverage their home conditions at Queens Sports Club. However, they face some challenges with multiple injuries in their squad, including Ben Curran and Richard Ngarava being unavailable. Star all-rounder Sikandar Raza has also opted out due to commitments in Major League Cricket, which is a significant blow. Despite these setbacks, the team sees the return of Vincent Masekesa and the addition of uncapped pacer Kundai Matigimu, bringing fresh energy to the squad. Zimbabwe will be eager to end their drought against South Africa in Tests, having never won against them in nine previous encounters (8 losses, 1 draw).
South Africa, fresh off their triumphant ICC World Test Championship victory against Australia, will be keen to carry that momentum into this series. This series marks their first Test assignment since that historic win. Temba Bavuma, the regular Test captain, is ruled out due to a hamstring injury, with spinner Keshav Maharaj stepping in to lead the Proteas. Several key regular members like Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, Kagiso Rabada, Marco Jansen, and Lungi Ngidi have been rested for this opener, indicating a focus on managing player workload and giving opportunities to emerging talents. This gives a chance for younger players like Dewald Brevis and Lhuan-dre Pretorius to shine. Despite resting senior players, South Africa’s depth ensures they remain a formidable opponent.
The Queens Sports Club pitch in Bulawayo is expected to be on the drier side, offering some assistance to bowlers initially. Historically, teams bowling first have had more success here. The surface is also expected to favor batters as the game progresses, with spinners likely to come into play later in the match. With no rain forecast, a full match is expected.
Head-to-Head (Test Matches)
- Matches Played: 9
- Zimbabwe Wins: 0
- South Africa Wins: 8
- Draws: 1
The solitary draw between these two sides in Tests occurred in 2001 at the same venue, Queens Sports Club.
Zimbabwe vs South Africa Fantasy Tips and Dream11 Prediction
Considering the team compositions and recent form, here are some fantasy tips for your Dream11 team:
- South African Bowlers: Even with some key pacers rested, South Africa’s bowling attack, led by Keshav Maharaj, will be potent. Spinners could be crucial on this pitch as it wears. Look for bowlers who can pick up wickets consistently. Marco Jansen, if playing, is a strong fantasy option.
- South African Batters: Despite the absence of some big names, South Africa has a strong batting line-up. Players like Tony de Zorzi and Dewald Brevis, who will be looking to cement their spots, could be excellent picks.
- Zimbabwean Captain & Key Batsmen: Craig Ervine will be vital for Zimbabwe’s batting. Players like Brian Bennett and Sean Williams (if available and playing despite MLC commitments mentioned in some reports) can also be good picks if they find form.
- All-rounders: All-rounders who can contribute with both bat and ball, like Wessly Madhevere (Zimbabwe) or any emerging all-rounders from South Africa, will be valuable.
Dream11 Team Suggestion (Tentative, based on likely playing XIs):
- Wicket-keepers: Kyle Verreynne (SA), Clive Madande (ZIM)
- Batsmen: Tony de Zorzi (SA), Dewald Brevis (SA), Craig Ervine (ZIM), Nicholas Welch (ZIM)
- All-rounders: Wessly Madhevere (ZIM), Vincent Masekesa (ZIM)
- Bowlers: Keshav Maharaj (SA), Corbin Bosch (SA), Blessing Muzarabani (ZIM)
Captain Choice: Keshav Maharaj (SA) – Leading the side and will be impactful with his spin. Vice-Captain Choice: Tony de Zorzi (SA) – Could score big against the relatively inexperienced Zimbabwean attack.
Zimbabwe vs South Africa Match Prediction
South Africa, despite resting some of their main players, possess a strong and deep squad. Their recent form in Test cricket, especially winning the WTC Final, gives them immense confidence. Zimbabwe, battling injuries and the absence of key players, will find it challenging to overcome the Proteas. While playing at home might provide some advantage, South Africa’s overall quality is expected to prevail.
Our Prediction: South Africa to win the 1st Test comfortably.
