Belgian-Born Cricket Star with Impressive 68 Average Debuts for Zimbabwe in Test Match Against Afghanistan
Zimbabwe has announced its squad for the one-off Test match against Afghanistan, scheduled to begin on October 20 in Harare. A noteworthy inclusion is Belgian-born cricket player Antum Naqvi, making his Test debut. This will mark Zimbabwe’s tenth Test of the year.
Naqvi’s Background and Journey
Antum Naqvi was born in Belgium and moved to Australia when he was four years old. He pursued a career in aviation, securing his pilot’s license before turning his focus to cricket. In 2023, Naqvi relocated to Zimbabwe after playing club cricket with former national player Solomon Mire.
Impressive Domestic Performance
Naqvi made an immediate impact in Zimbabwe’s domestic cricket. His first-class debut with the Rhinos was remarkable; he scored 140* and took seven wickets. He also shattered records by scoring the first triple century in a domestic competition, hitting 300* from 295 balls for Mid West Rhinos. Following these performances, Naqvi holds an impressive first-class batting average of 67.75, having recorded six centuries to date.
Statistics Overview
- First-Class Average: 67.75
- Centuries: 6
- Five-wicket hauls: 2
- Total Wickets: 47 in 19 matches
- Highest Score: 300*
In addition to his scoring feats, Naqvi was the highest run-scorer in the past two seasons of Zimbabwe’s first-class competition. Last year, he received a T20I call-up for a series against India but did not play due to eligibility issues. Now, with his Test debut on the horizon, he is set to prove his worth on a larger stage.
Squad Changes for the Test Match
Several changes have been made to the Zimbabwe squad following a heavy defeat to New Zealand in Bulawayo. Fast bowler Richard Ngarava returns after missing the New Zealand series, while Brad Evans earns a recall. Alongside Naqvi, fast bowler Tinotenda Maposa, who has previously represented Zimbabwe in white-ball formats, is also poised for his Test debut.
With a promising debutant lineup and experienced players returning to form, Zimbabwe aims to make a strong impression in the upcoming Test match against Afghanistan.
