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Zimbabwe name squad for T20I series against Afghanistan

Zimbabwe have announced a 15-man squad for next week’s Twenty20 International (T20I) series against Afghanistan in Harare, with selectors opting for continuity after the team’s successful qualification campaign for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.

The three-match series is set for 29 and 31 October and 2 November at Harare Sports Club.

The only change from the side that went unbeaten during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier earlier this month is the return of veteran leg-spinner Graeme Cremer, who comes in for pace bowler Trevor Gwandu.

With the T20I series forming a crucial part of Zimbabwe’s build-up to the 2026 global showpiece, captain Sikandar Raza leads a settled outfit that blends seasoned campaigners with exciting young prospects.

Richard Ngarava and Blessing Muzarabani continue to spearhead the seam attack, while Brendan Taylor remains on his international comeback path behind the stumps.

Rising talents Brian Bennett, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Brad Evans and Tashinga Musekiwa have also been retained following strong outings during the qualifying tournament.

All-rounder Sean Williams remains unavailable as he continues to attend to personal matters.

ZIMBABWE SQUAD FOR T20I SERIES VERSUS AFGHANISTAN:

Sikandar Raza (Captain), Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl, Graeme Cremer, Brad Evans, Clive Madande, Tinotenda Maposa, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wellington Masakadza, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Blessing Muzarabani, Dion Myers, Richard Ngarava, Brendan Taylor.

Ngunis Edge Valley Blades in Thriller as Sun Rays Shine Bright in Sable Lager Grid Cup Opener

The Sable Lager Grid Cup kicked off in style at Harare Sports Club with a thrilling doubleheader that gave fans a glimpse of what could be the dawn of franchise rugby in Zimbabwe.

 

The opening match between the Ngunis and Valley Blades turned into a try fest, with both sides crossing the whitewash eight times each. In the end, the Ngunis won 52–50 at the death.

It was a true forwards versus backs battle.

The Ngunis’ pack asserted dominance early, led by their powerful skipper and eighthman Aidan Burnett and industrious flanker Tadiwanashe Gwashu, who punched holes in the Blades’ defense all afternoon.

Brian Nyaude was outstanding in the lineouts, claiming almost every ball on their own throw.

The Ngunis’ rolling maul was unstoppable, repeatedly gaining territory and forcing penalties from a struggling Blades pack.

The Valley Blades, however, were dangerous whenever their backs got going.

Their experienced halfback pairing of Hilton Mudariki and Lenience Tambwera directed play with composure, unleashing pacey runners like Trevor Guruwe at center and Brendon Mudzwiti at fullback.

It was an entertaining clash that gave fans full value for money, though both coaches will no doubt have concerns about their sides’ defensive lapses, with too many soft tries conceded.

In the second game, the Sun Rays ran away 39–17 winners over Impi, whose depleted side was missing their inspirational captain Kudzai “The Enforcer” Mashawi, known for his hard running and aggressive style of play.

Despite missing key players, the Impi forwards held their own, going pound for pound with the Sun Rays pack and dominating at scrum time.

They won several penalties on opposition feed and trailed only 8–0 at halftime thanks to a strong defensive effort led by stand in skipper Vuyani Dhlomo.

But once the Sun Rays backs found their rhythm, there was no stopping them.

Sables utility back Dion Khumalo and Tamuka Pamire combined well in midfield, setting up quick ball for the electrifying Tavonga Ablant, the comeback kid who showed blistering pace to score a hat-trick of tries.

Week 2 of the Sable Lager Grid Cup promises more excitement as Zimbabwe’s top players continue to showcase the potential of franchise-style rugby.

All Set for Nubian Notes: Zimbabwe’s Biggest All-Female Music Celebration Takes Shape

Preparations for the highly anticipated NUBIAN NOTES – A Celebration of Women in Music concert are at an advanced stage, with Gateway Stream Media confirming that all the groundwork is now in place ahead of the November 8 event at the Harare International Convention Centre (HICC).

 

Organised by Gateway Stream Media, a subsidiary of Rainbow Tourism Group, in collaboration with ZAR Events, NUBIAN NOTES is set to make history as Zimbabwe’s biggest all-female music celebration under the theme “Mambokadzi – The Rise of Her Sound.”

The concert will feature powerhouse performances from Feli Nandi, Gemma Griffiths, Tamy Moyo, Shashl, and Nisha Ts, in a night dedicated to honouring womanhood, creativity, and the vibrant spirit of Zimbabwean music.

“Preparations are going as planned, and the energy from the fans has been overwhelmingly positive,” said Gateway Stream Media Manager, Mr. Elton Kurima. “Ticket sales are moving well, and it’s clear that people are ready for this one-of-a-kind celebration of women in music.”

Mr. Kurima reiterated that the upcoming show is a continuation of Gateway Stream Media’s mission to celebrate local talent.

“This show aligns perfectly with our goals as Gateway Stream Media — to empower artists and give them platforms where they can be celebrated,” he said.

“By partnering with these incredible women, we are not just hosting a concert; we are building an ecosystem that supports artistry and creativity.”

“Yes, it’s an all-female lineup — but this show is for everyone,” said Kurima. “We want every music lover, young or old, male or female, to come and experience the concert, which is a celebration of sound, strength, and togetherness.”

ZAR Events founder Connie Mazani promised the fans a night filled with electrifying performances.

”Get ready for an unforgettable night. Our upcoming event promises to dazzle with electrifying performances, captivating DJs, and an immersive atmosphere. During the concert, Becky K from Capitalk and KVG from Starfm will be the Event MCs/hosts, and DJ Yahya Goodvibes will be on the decks for the night. Come, let’s have fun together.”

The artists, equally enthusiastic, shared what fans can look forward to on the big night.

In an interview, award-winning artist Shashl said women are redefining creativity across every space.

“We are no longer just participants; we are innovators, leaders, and visionaries shaping culture in real time. Whether it’s through music, film, fashion, or business, women are bringing depth, emotional intelligence, and new narratives that challenge norms.”

She said fans can expect an experience, not just a performance.

“I’m bringing energy, emotion, and elegance together. It’s going to be soulful and heartfelt, with a signature Shashl touch, real stories, beautiful melodies, and a connection that goes beyond the stage. Let’s just say it’s a celebration of womanhood, music, and unity. You’ll just have to be there to feel it.”

In another interview, award-winning artist Gemma Griffiths said, “It’s about time we had something like this. I want people to leave the concert inspired, and to feel part of something bold, honest, and magical.”

Reflecting on her performance, she shared that her set will be inspired by her personal journey, love, life, and growth, all expressed through authentic Zimbabwean energy.

“My performance is about sharing pieces of my story, and I hope people leave feeling inspired to be themselves, bold and unapologetic.

Award-winning artist Tamy Moyo said, “Let’s just say there are moments that even the stage won’t see coming,” she added with a smile. “It’s a performance that blurs the line between story and soul. You’ll have to be there to feel it.”

“Fans from all walks of life are invited to come together and share in this vibrant celebration of sisterhood.”

Award-winning artist, Feli Nandi, expressed her excitement, saying, “It’s more than a show; it’s a statement. Women belong at the front. Expect fireworks-  we are even inviting some male collaborators to join us!”

@zimbuzz

Feli Nandi, Shashl, Tamy, Gemma, speak ahead of The Nubian Notes show

♬ original sound – Zimbuzz

Artificial Intelligence Takes Centre Stage In Johannesburg at 8th Edition of AI Expo Africa 

Africa’s largest Artificial Intelligence & Intelligent Automation event, AI Expo Africa, will be running its highly acclaimed conference & trade show at the Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg, South Africa 29-31 October 2025.

 

Now entering its 8th year, the annual AI Expo Africa event unites regional and international AI thought leaders, suppliers, investors and start-ups to discuss and showcase the latest AI & Smart Tech innovations from the biggest global brands to newest Startups.

The core focus of the show is real world applications you can deploy today with an audience comprised of Enterprise and Government buyers, deployment & service providers, start-ups, educators, NGOs, investors and AI ecosystem builders.

Dr Nick Bradshaw, Founder of AI Expo Africa & Chairperson of the South African AI Association stated, “This 8th Anniversary Edition is our biggest show to-date, with over 100 AI companies in the expo hall, many of which are local and regional AI Startups.”

Big themes for this year range from Agentic AI and the autonomous Enterprise, Security in the Age of AI, Responsible AI, Data Centre investment, National AI strategies and a new, dedicated third day devoted to AI for Good via the hosting of the first International Telecommunication Union (ITU) AI for Good Impact Africa gathering at the show.

Delegates will hear from 60+ speakers, panels and AI thought leaders from the likes of Coca Cola, First National Bank, Google, Huawei, Open Access Data Centres, Microsoft,

PepsiCo, Pinnacle, Dell, Supermicro, Rectron, Salesforce, ServiceNow, Standard Bank Group, Takealot, Verint, VAST Data, UN ITU, French Embassy in South Africa, Cisco, OpenTeams and many more.

With a community of 50k+ practitioners, the show format is built upon the phenomenal success of the previous seven events that have cemented AI Expo Africa and Johannesburg as the largest AI and Intelligent Automation business gathering of its kind in Africa.

Almasi Festival Ignites Jasen Mphepo Theatre with African Theatre Brilliance

Almasi Collaborative Art’s “Africa Voices Now! A Festival of New African Plays” marked a theatrical milestone on Saturday night with a sold-out opening performance of Can We Talk? by playwright Batsirai Chigama.

 

The intimate premiere at Jasen Mphepo Little Theatre concluded with a resounding standing ovation, marking a triumphant debut for the festival that represents 13 years of intensive artistic development.

The electric atmosphere inside the transformed Jasen Mphepo Little Theatre was palpable as the 60-seat venue reached full capacity with patrons who secured prestige tickets to support Almasi’s groundbreaking work in developing African theatrical talent.

The evening brought together an extraordinary gathering of Zimbabwe’s arts community, with festival founder Danai Gurira joined by the Almasi team and acclaimed members of the arts community in celebration of authentic African storytelling.

The Africa Voices Now! festival completely transformed the Jasen Mphepo Little Theatre with an evocative and vibrant art installation by visual artist Takunda Regis Billiat.

His installation features repurposed and upcycled materials that were used to create towering entry pillars in the space, an immersive tunnel and evocative pieces littered throughout the Theatre’s grounds.

The tunnel also features a series of large canvases displaying photos that tell the incredible Almasi story from its inception until present day.

“AVN is on! Don’t miss it. I cannot remember a more impactful moment in the theatre than being amongst Zimbabweans watching our opening night performance.”

“The energy, the community, the story of us as a people, embodied on that stage. I truly believe those who may never have thought themselves theatre goers need to give this a try. This may make them believers of it yet!” said Danai Gurira, Cofounder and Artistic Director of Almasi Collaborative Arts.

The production showcased the depth of talent cultivated through Almasi’s rigorous training programs, with Can We Talk? demonstrating the artistic excellence that has become synonymous with the organisation’s mission of “Bringing the African Narrative to the Global Stage.”

The night also featured a rousing performance from Hope Masike, who christened the stage of the performance area Almasi has dubbed the AVN (Africa Voices Now) Chill Zone. The Chill Zone, which features music every day of the festival from 4.30 pm, as well as vendors,  is open to theatre lovers who wish to come and soak in the energy of the festival.

 

Benefit Night To Honour Walter Muparutsa – October 24

Building on the momentum of the opening night’s success, Almasi Collaborative Arts invites supporters to a special Benefit Night on Friday, October 24th, featuring These Humans Are Sick by Tatenda Mutyambizi.

This prestigious evening will honour the late, great Walter Muparutsa, a towering figure in Zimbabwean theatre whose legacy continues to inspire generations of artists.

The benefit performance will support the Walter Muparutsa Fellowship, Almasi’s initiative dedicated to preserving his memory while providing emerging theatre practitioners with opportunities to develop their craft at the highest level.

Prestige tickets for the October 24th benefit night are available at $50, with proceeds directly supporting Almasi’s artistic development programs and the Walter Muparutsa Fellowship.

A special raffle will also be held during the evening, offering patrons additional opportunities to support the organisation’s mission.

Chevrons Crush Afghanistan to Secure First Home Test Win in 12 Years

Zimbabwe cricket celebrated a historic moment at Harare Sports Club after defeating Afghanistan by an innings and 73 runs in a one-off Test match ,their first home Test win since 2013.

 

The Chevrons delivered a complete performance across all three disciplines as the match wrapped up on Day 3, just after lunch. The last time Zimbabwe won a Test at Harare Sports Club was also in 2013, against Pakistan.

Ben Curran was named Player of the Match after scoring a superb 121 his maiden Test century to guide Zimbabwe to 359 all out in their first innings, giving them a commanding lead of 232 runs.

Afghanistan never found their footing in the second innings. Seamer Richard Ngarava was the chief destroyer, claiming his maiden five-wicket haul in Test cricket.

Bowling with pace and aggression under overcast conditions, he proved virtually unplayable. Earlier, Brad Evans had also taken his first five for in Afghanistan’s first innings, while Blessing Muzarabani maintained relentless pressure and picked up three wickets.

For Afghanistan, the only bright spot was their debutant fast bowler Zia Ur Rahman Sharifi, who impressed with a seven-wicket haul, troubling Zimbabwe’s batsmen with sharp swing five of his dismissals were bowled.

It was a long overdue and well deserved victory for the Chevrons, built on disciplined bowling, sharp fielding, and solid batting a fitting way to close out a busy year in which Zimbabwe played 10 Tests, their most in several seasons.

Sable Lager Grid Cup Kicks Off at Harare Sports Club this weekend

There’s a new kid on the block in Zimbabwe rugby the Grid Cup, proudly backed by Sable Lager.

 

The tournament will feature four teams, Valley Blades captained by Hilton Mudariki, Sun Rays led by Dion Khumalo, Impi under Kudzai Mashawi, and Ngunis skippered by Aidan Burnett.

Action gets underway this Friday, 25 October, at Harare Sports Club, marking the start of a new chapter for local rugby fans.

The competition will run over four weekends in a round-robin format, with the team that collects the most points walking away as the first ever Sable Lager Grid Cup champions.

A New Rugby Concept

What makes the Grid Cup different is how the teams were built. Instead of players joining through club affiliation, the organizers introduced a draft system something you would normally see in American sports like the NBA and NFL.

This means coaches picked players they felt would suit their game plan, creating balanced and competitive squads across all four sides.

At the helm of this fresh concept is Commissioner Nyasha Muchochomi, who oversees the tournament in an American style setup.

Commissioner Speaks

Speaking to Zimbuzz Sports ahead of the big kickoff, Muchochomi said fans should expect a brand-new rugby experience.

“Fans can expect something fresh, something different,” he said. “The players are excited ,some are looking forward to playing alongside each other, while others can’t wait to face off against good friends.

When the players received their kits this week, there was a lot of buzz and excitement. It’s something new for many of them, something different from what they’re used to with their clubs or the national team.

For the fans, we have  lined up several artists who’ll perform during halftime and after matches. We want rugby to be a fun and family friendly space on weekends.”

Muchochomi added that a few law tweaks have been made in consultation with match officials to make the games more exciting and faster paced.

Opening Weekend Fixtures

The opening match will see Valley Blades take on the Ngunis at 16:30, and it’s shaping up to be a bruising battle up front.

The Ngunis boast a powerful pack led by Aidan Burnett, with Takunda Kundishora in the second row and Tadiwanashe Gwashu in the loose forwards all known for their physicality and strong carries.

The Blades, however, have their own weapons. Captain Hilton Mudariki will guide the backline alongside Lenience Tambwera, with Trevor Guruwe providing the spark out wide. If their attack clicks, they could cause serious problems.

Under the lights, Impi will lock horns with Sun Rays in the second fixture, wrapping up what promises to be an entertaining first night of rugby.

Entertainment and Entry

Fans will be treated to live performances from Kay Flow, the man behind the hit “Ramba Wakadzvanya”, and Denzel Soka.

Gate charge is only USD 2, making it an affordable and fun outing for rugby fans and families.

Feli Nandi, Gemma and Tamy Speak Ahead of ‘Nubian Notes’ Women’s Music Showcase

A new era of Zimbabwean music takes center stage on November 8, 2025, when the Harare International Conference Centre (HICC) hosts Nubian Notes: A Celebration of Women in Music.

 

The all-female concert, presented by Gateway Stream Media in partnership with ZAR Events, brings together some of Zimbabwe’s most acclaimed artists Feli Nandi, Gemma Griffiths, Tamy Moyo, Shashl, and Nisha Ts in what promises to be one of the country’s most powerful musical showcases.

Dubbed “Mambokadzi – The Rise of Her Sound,” the event is more than a concert; it is a declaration of artistic strength, unity, and empowerment.

For Feli Nandi, the evening marks a milestone in recognizing women’s leadership in music.

“It is such a great honour and an awesome privilege. All I can say is that it was about time,” she said.

“We are so ready to show that women can definitely do it too. This platform is not just a performance; it is a statement that women belong at the forefront of our music scene.”

Tamy Moyo, known for her soulful Afro-fusion sound, echoed that sentiment.

“It is powerful to stand among women who are rewriting the story of creativity,” she said. “This show celebrates our strength, softness, and individuality. It reminds me that feminine expression deserves to take up space, unapologetically.”

She added that her performance will explore the depth of womanhood. “My set is inspired by womanhood its strength, vulnerability, and rhythm,” she said. “Every song tells a piece of that shared story.”

Meanwhile, Gemma Griffiths described Nubian Notes as a groundbreaking moment for the local industry.

“It means so much to be part of this all-female show. I really think it’s about time we had something like this in Zimbabwe,” she said.

“It feels good to be surrounded by powerful women doing their thing. My performance is about sharing pieces of my story love, life, growth all expressed through authentic Zimbabwean energy.”

Each artist is preparing a set that reflects her individuality while celebrating collective creativity.

The show will blend genres from Afro-jazz and soul to contemporary pop, mirroring the diversity of Zimbabwe’s evolving music landscape.

As Nubian Notes prepares to light up HICC, it’s clear the concert represents more than a night of entertainment it’s a celebration of artistry, empowerment, and the unstoppable rise of Zimbabwe’s women in music.

Evans’ Maiden Five wicket haul Puts Zimbabwe in Command Against Afghanistan

Zimbabwe produced a superb all round display with both bat and ball on Day 1 of the one-off Test against Afghanistan at Harare Sports Club.

 

Chevrons captain Craig Ervine won the toss and elected to bowl first, aiming to exploit the early morning conditions that traditionally offer plenty for seamers on a fresh Harare wicket.

The home side’s seam attack delivered on that plan, maintaining tight lines and lengths throughout the innings.

Their efforts were well supported by sharp fielding, highlighted by a couple of run outs and clean work behind the stumps from wicketkeeper Takudzwa Tsiga.

Brad Evans was the standout performer, claiming his maiden five wicket haul in Test cricket. He finished with figures of 5 for 22 from 9.3 overs at an impressive economy rate of 2.32.

Evans credited his success to perseverance and self-belief, saying, “Since suffering two major injuries, I’ve blocked out the noise from elsewhere and focused on working hard on my game, backing my abilities.”

Blessing Muzarabani provided strong support, taking three wickets, while Tanaka Chivanga chipped in with one as Afghanistan were dismissed for 127 in 32 overs during the second session.

By stumps, Zimbabwe had reached 130 for 2, taking a three run lead before bad light ended play 20 minutes early.

Ben Curran was unbeaten on 52, while senior batsman Brendan Taylor was not out on 18. Nick Welch narrowly missed out on another half century, bowled by Zia Ur Rahman Sharifi for 49. Sharifi claimed both wickets for Afghanistan.

With Zimbabwe holding the upper hand, Day 2 promises to be an intriguing one.

NetOne 263 Culture Festival Thrills Thousands at Thorn Polo Club

The 3rd edition of the NetOne 263 Culture Festival was a massive success as thousands of Harare residents thronged Thorn Polo Club for a day filled with music, food, and fashion.

 

Long queues at the gates showed just how eager Hararians were to enjoy the annual cultural celebration.

The show kicked off at midday under the bright Harare sun. Upcoming artist Atenda Chinx took centre stage earlier in the day, while King 98’s performance set the tone for what would be an exciting afternoon.

He delivered a rich catalogue of hits, including Wadepisa, No Love, and the classic Wacko, bringing that hip-hop flair to the festival.

Seasoned DJ Kent proved that form is temporary but class is permanent, showcasing his trademark skill and connection with the crowd.

Nisha T switched things up with her commanding stage presence and unique Afro-pop style, while De Mthuda followed with a masterful set that blended smooth private school Amapiano sounds, leaving fans in awe.

MC Nomuzi Mabhena, affectionately known as Moozlie, once again showed why she has become the face of the festival.

Hosting for the second consecutive year, Moozlie brought energy, elegance, and flair to the stage. Her multiple outfit changes each carried a theme, with the standout being a stunning Zimbabwe flag-inspired look adorned with beads.

Among the local acts, Saint Floew stood out as the most impressive performer. Backed by dancers in vibrant outfits, he kept revellers on their feet throughout his set.

The rapper shared a heartfelt moment, telling fans it was by God’s grace that he was performing after recently being hospitalised and unable to speak. He gave his all on stage.

Major League DJz, famous for their Balcony Mix sessions and sold-out shows around the world, kept the energy high with a flawless set that lit up Thorn Polo Club.

The Isaka (6 AM) hitmaker Ciza also surprised many with his versatility, showing that he’s not just a musician but also a skilled DJ. His set impressed the crowd and added a fresh dynamic to the festival.

One of the biggest surprises of the night came when Nutty O brought out Julian King, who recently returned from the UK. The duo performed their collaboration Eke, much to the delight of the crowd.

The Scorpion Kings DJ Kabza De Small and DJ Maphorisa, affectionately known as Amadhumane, closed the show in spectacular fashion. Their hour-long set featured crowd favourites such as Amazwe and Hello, putting the cherry on top of what was an unforgettable festival.

Organisers deserve applause for putting together a well-run event. Security was tight, with guards stationed around the venue and at the gates.

Food stalls were easily accessible and offered a variety of cuisines that captured the true essence of culture, while the bar area was well-managed and efficient.

The lineup was well curated, catering to diverse music lovers, from hip-hop to Zimdancehall and Amapiano fans alike.

The 4th edition of the NetOne 263 Culture Festival is already pencilled in for 17 October 2026.

Featured Image by IKD Photography