England to host Test match vs Zimbabwe in 2025

ASHLEY DUBE 

In 2025, the England men's cricket team will be hosting Zimbabwe in a Test match, marking the first time in over twenty years that the two sides will compete in the longest format of the game. 

Image - Wisden Cricket

The Test match will take place over four days, from May 28th to May 31st, at a location that has yet to be determined.

This arrangement comes after successful discussions between the England and Wales Cricket Board and Zimbabwe Cricket, with the aim of strengthening their relationship. 

A statement released on Tuesday read, “The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) will host bilateral cricket against Zimbabwe for the first time since 2003 following an agreement to play a Men’s Test match in May 2025.

“England Men will play Zimbabwe in a four-day Test from 28-31 May 2025, at a venue to be confirmed, and follows discussions between the ECB and Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) to forge closer relations.”

In the past, England and Zimbabwe have faced each other six times in Test cricket, with England visiting Zimbabwe for a two-Test series in 1996, which ended in a draw, and hosting series' in 2000 and 2003. 

England emerged victorious in both of those series, winning 1-0 and 2-0 respectively. 

Notably, Zimbabwe's tour in 2003 saw James Anderson, England's leading wicket-taker of all time, make his Test debut at Lord's, taking 5-73 in the first innings.