Sam Curran, the youngest of the Curran brothers, has expressed heartfelt congratulations to his older sibling Ben Curran on receiving his first national call-up to represent Zimbabwe in the upcoming ODI series against Afghanistan. The announcement not only marks a significant milestone in Ben’s career but also highlights the family’s rich cricketing heritage and emotional ties to Zimbabwe.
Sam Curran congratulates his big brother Ben
The Curran family is no stranger to cricketing accolades. Sam and Tom Curran have made their marks on the international stage, with Sam representing England in 117 matches across all formats, accumulating 1,768 runs and taking 134 wickets. Tom, the eldest brother, has also made notable contributions with 60 matches played, scoring 433 runs and capturing 65 wickets. Their father, Kevin Curran, was a former Zimbabwe international cricketer who played 11 ODIs and later served as the national team’s coach from 2005 to 2007. Tragically, Kevin passed away in 2012, but his legacy continues to inspire his sons.
Sam’s took to X and wrote, “Such special news, couldn’t be happier for you BC. Someone will be looking down with a huge smile on their face today,” likely a reference to their late father. This sentiment encapsulates the pride and emotional weight that comes with representing their father’s homeland.
Also READ: Ben Curran receives maiden call-up as Zimbabwe announce ODI and T20I squads for Afghanistan series
Such special news, couldn’t be happier for you BC..
Someone will be looking down with a huge smile on their face today ❤️ 🙏🏻 https://t.co/G54v0Gb4xI— Sam Curran (@CurranSM) December 9, 2024
Ben Curran’s journey: From Northamptonshire to Zimbabwe
Ben’s cricketing journey has been both challenging and rewarding. After playing for Northamptonshire until 2022, he decided to return to Zimbabwe, where he spent much of his childhood. His performances in domestic cricket have been impressive; he currently leads the run-scoring charts in Zimbabwe’s Pro50 List A competition with an average of 64.50 and has excelled in first-class cricket as well, boasting an average of 74.14. This remarkable form undoubtedly played a crucial role in his selection for the national team.
At 28 years old, Ben is set to make his international debut for Zimbabwe as they prepare to host Afghanistan for a series that includes three T20Is starting December 11 and three ODIs beginning December 17. The excitement surrounding his inclusion reflects not only personal achievement but also a sense of national pride as Zimbabwe looks to build a competitive squad.
Zimbabwe to face Afghanistan in Harare
The announcement of Ben’s selection coincides with Zimbabwe’s preparations for their series against Afghanistan. The T20I matches will be held from December 11 to December 14, followed by the ODI series from December 17 to December 21. Craig Ervine will lead the ODI squad which includes promising talents like Newman Nyamhuri alongside Ben. The series is expected to be a thrilling encounter as both teams vie for supremacy on the field.
The T20I squad features notable players such as Sikandar Raza and Blessing Muzarabani, while the ODI squad includes experienced campaigners alongside fresh talent like Ben. This blend of youth and experience could prove vital for Zimbabwe as they aim to make their mark in international cricket.
Also READ: Brian Bennett guides Zimbabwe to a consolation win over Pakistan in the 3rd T20I
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