Ben Curran, son of former Zimbabwe cricketer and coach Kevin Curran, has been named in Zimbabwe’s squad for the upcoming ODI series against Afghanistan. The 28-year-old, also the brother of England internationals Sam and Tom Curran, earned his maiden call-up following a stellar domestic season.
Curran's performances in Zimbabwe's 50-over competition have been particularly impressive, where he leads the run charts with an average of 64.50. He has also excelled in red-ball cricket, averaging 74.14, with the T20 competition yet to commence.
Previously representing Northamptonshire from 2018 to 2022, Curran now looks forward to his international debut. The ODI series, part of a packed schedule, begins on December 17, following a three-match T20 series from December 11 to 14. Zimbabwe is also set to play a two-Test series starting December 26, with the squad for those matches yet to be announced.
The Curran family has a rich cricketing heritage, with Kevin Curran having played 11 ODIs for Zimbabwe and later serving as their head coach. Ben's brothers, Sam and Tom, have represented England extensively, with Sam remaining a key part of England’s white-ball plans.
Zimbabwe is also slated to face England in a historic one-off Test at Trent Bridge in May 2025, marking the team’s return to Test cricket in England after two decades. The inclusion of Curran adds further intrigue to Zimbabwe's ongoing preparations.