Sean Williams Pulls Out Of Zimbabwe Vs Afghanistan Cricket Series

Sean Williams Withdraws From Zimbabwe Cricket Squad Against Afghanistan

Veteran Zimbabwe cricket player Sean Williams has withdrawn from the upcoming Afghanistan series. The experienced all-rounder, who has long been a pillar in Zimbabwe’s middle order, is not part of the squad for the one-off Test and the three T20 internationals. According to sports journalist Adam Theo, Williams stepped aside for personal reasons.

Williams Steps Aside

Williams’ absence was confirmed just days before the Test match scheduled to start on 20 October 2025 at Harare Sports Club. The T20I matches will follow on 29 October, 31 October, and 2 November 2025.

The cricketer also missed the World Cup Qualifiers earlier this year, citing similar reasons. Theo reported:

“Veteran Zimbabwean cricketer Sean Williams will not take part in the upcoming Afghanistan tour.”

Williams’ withdrawal has left many fans disappointed, as his experience has often been vital in Zimbabwe’s batting and bowling balance.

Squad Announcement

Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) has unveiled a 16-man squad for the Test series against Afghanistan. The announcement was made on 16 October 2025.

Key inclusions are left-arm seamer Richard Ngarava, who returns after being rested, and all-rounder Brad Evans, set to play his second Test after last featuring in February 2023. Two players — Antum Naqvi and Tinotenda Maposa — have been named for potential debuts.

ZC said in its statement:

“The squad includes a blend of experience and fresh talent as the team looks to make a strong impression on home soil.”

Craig Ervine will captain the side, supported by stalwarts Sikandar Raza, Blessing Muzarabani, and Brendan Taylor. Young opener Brian Bennett and batters Ben Curran and Nick Welch are expected to provide added firepower.

Past Memories And Upcoming Battles

Zimbabwe will take encouragement from their 2021 performance, when they crushed Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi, bowling them out for 131 and 135 before sealing victory with ease.

The last time Afghanistan toured Zimbabwe was in December 2024 and January 2025. That series saw a draw in the first Test and Afghanistan taking the second.

With Sean Williams absent, Zimbabwe will need to rely on both veterans and new faces to take the fight to Afghanistan in Harare.