Antum Naqvi Set for Long-Awaited Zimbabwe Debut After ICC Eligibility Clearance
Zimbabwe all-rounder Antum Naqvi is in line to make his long-awaited international debut after receiving clearance to represent the country under the International Cricket Council’s eligibility criteria. Naqvi has been named in Zimbabwe’s squad for the two-match Test series against Afghanistan, beginning in Sharjah on November 5, 2026.
The 27-year-old has been one of the most talked-about players in Zimbabwe’s domestic cricket. His selection comes after a lengthy eligibility process that previously prevented him from making his international debut, despite being called up for national squads.
Antum Naqvi’s Eligibility Clearance Opens the Door
Born in Brussels, Belgium, to Pakistani parents and raised in Australia, Naqvi moved to Zimbabwe in 2023 to pursue his cricket career. He has since established himself as a standout performer in the country’s domestic competitions.
Naqvi’s eligibility had remained unresolved for some time. He was previously selected for Zimbabwe’s T20I squad against India in 2024 and was also considered for a Test against Afghanistan in 2025, but the necessary clearance was not completed.
The latest confirmation that he meets the ICC’s eligibility requirements has cleared the way for his potential debut in the longest format.
Antum Naqvi’s Record-Breaking Domestic Career
Naqvi made an immediate impact in Zimbabwean domestic cricket. On his first-class debut for Mid-West Rhinos, he scored an unbeaten 140, announcing himself as a promising batting talent.
His biggest achievement came in January 2024, when he struck an unbeaten 300 against Tuskers in the Logan Cup. It was the first triple-century in Zimbabwe’s domestic first-class cricket.
Naqvi has also shown his value as a bowling all-rounder. His first-class record includes a batting average above 60 and more than 60 wickets, making him a potentially important addition to Zimbabwe’s Test side.
Zimbabwe Name Antum Naqvi in Test Squad Against Afghanistan
Zimbabwe have included Naqvi in their squad for the two-Test series against Afghanistan in the United Arab Emirates.
The first Test is scheduled to begin on November 5 at Sharjah Cricket Stadium, with the second match set to start on November 13 at the same venue. Brian Bennett will captain Zimbabwe after regular skipper Richard Ngarava was ruled out while recovering from a back injury.
Zimbabwe Test Squad
| Player | Role / Note |
|---|---|
| Brian Bennett | Captain |
| Antum Naqvi | All-rounder |
| Ben Curran | Batter |
| Blessing Muzarabani | Fast bowler |
| Brad Evans | Fast bowler |
| Brendan Taylor | Batter |
| Craig Ervine | Batter |
| Graeme Cremer | Leg-spinner |
| Innocent Kaia | Batter |
| Ernest Masuku | Fast bowler |
| Kundai Matigimu | Bowler |
| Newman Nyamhuri | Fast bowler |
| Tadiwanashe Marumani | Wicketkeeper-batter |
| Tafadzwa Tsiga | Wicketkeeper-batter |
| Vincent Masekesa | Bowler |
| Wellington Masakadza | Spinner |
| Wessly Madhevere | All-rounder |
A Potential Debut Against Afghanistan
The Afghanistan series offers Naqvi an opportunity to translate his domestic success into international cricket. His batting ability could strengthen Zimbabwe’s middle order, while his off-spin provides another option for the team’s bowling attack.
Zimbabwe will be looking to regain momentum after a difficult white-ball tour in the UAE. The Test series also gives the team an opportunity to assess its depth and build towards future international assignments.
Naqvi’s inclusion is a notable development for Zimbabwe cricket, especially after the long wait for his eligibility clearance. Whether he makes his debut in the opening Test or later in the series, his arrival adds a fresh dimension to the squad.
Conclusion
Antum Naqvi is set for a potential international debut after finally meeting the ICC eligibility requirements to represent Zimbabwe. The Belgium-born, Australia-raised all-rounder has earned his opportunity through strong domestic performances, including a historic unbeaten 300 in the Logan Cup.
With Naqvi included in Zimbabwe’s squad for the Afghanistan Test series in Sharjah, fans will be watching closely to see whether he can make an immediate impact at international level.