Meet Zimbabwe’s Newest T20I Batter Antum Naqvis

Zimbabwe Cricket has recently announced its squad for the upcoming T20I series against India, signaling a shift towards youth and potential as they rebuild under new coach Justin Simmons. Among the notable inclusions is 25-year-old batter Antum Naqvi, whose selection has sparked considerable interest and curiosity within the cricketing community.

His journey to Zimbabwe began in 2023, influenced by former Zimbabwean cricketer Solomon Mire, now residing in Australia. This move marked a significant shift in Naqvi’s career trajectory, setting the stage for his upcoming international debut pending his citizenship approval.

Naqvi’s cricketing prowess came to the forefront during a landmark moment in Zimbabwean cricket history. In a Logan Cup match earlier this year between Mid West Rhinos and Matalebeland Tuskers, Naqvi etched his name in the record books by becoming the first player in Zimbabwean representative cricket to score a triple-century. His unbeaten 300 off 295 deliveries, adorned with 30 fours and 10 sixes, propelled Mid-West Rhinos to a commanding victory by an innings and 40 runs. With each boundary, he demonstrated a keen understanding of the game’s nuances and his role as a match-winner.

Beyond cricket, Naqvi’s life is characterized by a rare duality—his passion for aviation. A qualified commercial pilot, Naqvi pursued his dreams alongside his cricketing career. From excelling in sports at The Hills Sports High School in Sydney, he transitioned seamlessly to mastering the skies at Hartwig Flight School, earning his commercial pilot’s license. His journey reflects a testament to disciplined time management, balancing flying in the mornings with cricket training in the afternoons. Naqvi’s ability to excel in both demanding fields highlights his resilience and commitment to pursuing excellence.

Naqvi’s initial foray into international cricket saw him represent Zimbabwe Under-25s against Uganda in a T20 series in 2023. Although his debut match was modest, Naqvi’s inclusion underscored Zimbabwe Cricket’s strategy of nurturing young talent for future campaigns.

In his domestic career, Naqvi boasts an impressive record across formats. With a remarkable average of 72 in first-class cricket, including four centuries, he has demonstrated consistency and the ability to convert starts into substantial scores. In List-A matches, Naqvi maintains an average of 73.4, further highlighting his proficiency across different formats. Additionally, his dual role as a right-arm off-break bowler has seen him contribute with crucial wickets in both first-class and List-A cricket.

As Naqvi awaits the opportunity to don the Zimbabwean colors officially, his inclusion symbolizes a new chapter in Zimbabwe Cricket’s rebuilding phase. With a blend of youth, talent, and determination, Naqvi stands poised to make a significant impact in international cricket, starting with the upcoming series against India. His journey—from Belgium to Australia and now Zimbabwe—illustrates a global pathway to success, driven by passion, skill, and unwavering dedication.

Antum Naqvi‘s emergence as Zimbabwe’s newest T20I batter represents not only a strategic selection but also a beacon of hope for Zimbabwean cricket’s future. As he prepares to embark on his international career, all eyes will be on Naqvi, eager to witness his potential unfold on the grand stage of international cricket.