Zimbabwe Women Name Squad for Historic New Zealand Tour, Debut in ICC Women's Championship

Zimbabwe Women are set to script a new chapter in their cricketing journey as they prepare for a landmark tour of New Zealand, marking their maiden appearance in the ICC Women’s Championship. The historic assignment will see the side compete in both T20Is and ODIs, with the ODIs forming part of the 2025-2029 Championship cycle the primary qualification pathway for the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2029.

29-year-old left-arm medium bowler Nomvelo Sibanda has been entrusted with the responsibility of leading the 15-member squad. Her appointment signals continuity and trust in a player who has been a consistent performer with the ball. She has 108 runs and 16 wickets to her name from 20 ODIs, while has 54 wickets from 57 T20Is. Sibanda will captain a group that blends experienced campaigners with promising young talent, reflecting Zimbabwe Cricket’s long-term vision for growth at the highest level.

Under the current Championship format, each team will contest eight three match ODI series, four at home and four away across the cycle. According to the ICC’s Future Tours Programme, Zimbabwe Women will tour New Zealand, India, Bangladesh and Pakistan, while hosting South Africa, West Indies, Sri Lanka and Ireland. It is a demanding schedule, but one that offers invaluable exposure against top tier opposition.

Compared to their last campaign at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier, the squad for the New Zealand tour shows a few notable changes. While core players such as Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano, Modester Mupachikwa, Kelis Ndhlovu, Josephine Nkomo and Loryn Phiri continue to feature, there are fresh inclusions in Precious Marange and Tendai Makusha.

Their addition adds depth and signals the selectors’ intent to broaden the talent pool as Zimbabwe transitions into a more competitive international cycle. The mix of youth and experience suggests team building not just for immediate results, but for sustained development through the Championship years.

Zimbabwe Women’s inclusion in the ICC Women’s Championship is more than just participation; it is recognition of years of investment in domestic structures and high-performance programmes. Competing regularly against established cricketing nations will test their resilience, adaptability and skill, but it also offers a platform to measure growth.

As they head to New Zealand for this historic series, the focus will be on learning, competing fiercely and embracing the opportunity. For Nomvelo Sibanda and her squad, this tour represents both a challenge and a statement that Zimbabwe Women are ready to step onto the global stage.

Zimbabwe Women Squad for New Zealand Tour 2026:

Nomvelo Sibanda (C), Modester Mupachikwa, Kelis Ndhlovu, Beloved Biza, Loreen Tshuma, Josephine Nkomo, Chiedza Dhururu, Nyasha Gwanzura, Audrey Mazvishaya, Adel Zimunu, Precious Marange, Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano, Loryn Phiri, Christabel Chatonzwa, Tendai Makusha