In an unexpected twist in the world of cricket, Ben Curran, sibling to England’s renowned cricket duo Sam and Tom Curran, has taken a bold step, opting to play for Zimbabwe in their upcoming one-day series against Afghanistan. This decision follows his recent declaration of intent to represent the country where his father, Kevin Curran, made his mark in cricket history.
Ben Curran’s move is more than just a career decision; it’s a homage to his roots. His late father, Kevin Curran, was a celebrated Zimbabwean cricketer who made significant contributions both domestically and on the English county circuit. Despite being born in Northampton, England, Ben and his brothers spent much of their formative years in Zimbabwe, a place their father called home.
With Zimbabwe scheduling matches against Afghanistan this month, Ben is poised to add a new chapter to the Curran family legacy. He was recently drafted into the Zimbabwean team following remarkable performances in domestic cricket, which caught the selectors’ attention.
This decision also ties into a potential historic family rivalry. While Ben will be donning the Zimbabwean colors, his brothers continue to represent England on the international stage. With Zimbabwe set to tour England in 2025, the world might witness a rare and exciting spectacle of siblings facing off from opposite sides of the cricket divide.
The anticipation for the upcoming series is mounting, especially given Ben’s likely participation in the two Tests against Afghanistan scheduled for Boxing Day and the New Year. The ODI series is slated to kick off in Harare on December 17, providing Ben a chance to make an impactful debut.
This development not only underscores Ben’s personal commitment to his father’s legacy but also adds a fascinating narrative to Zimbabwe’s cricket story. The prospect of Ben Curran, a name known in cricket circles for his family ties, leading Zimbabwe on the field, brings a fresh and intriguing dynamic to the sport.
Ben Curran’s decision to play for Zimbabwe infuses a personal story and a touch of history into the upcoming cricket series. As the spotlight turns to Harare, cricket fans around the world are eager to see how this unique family saga will unfold. Whether a rivalry develops with his brothers remains to be seen, but Ben’s journey promises to be a compelling addition to cricket’s rich tapestry.
Source: Apnews
