CTC Sports Wear News Update 104

The Return of a Classic Rivalry

After nearly a decade, South Africa and Zimbabwe will lock horns once again in a two-match Test series starting July 2 at the Queen Sports Club in Bulawayo. This marks the first time the Proteas will face Zimbabwe in the longest format since 2017, and their first Test series visit to Zimbabwe since 2014.

The series, though not part of the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, comes fresh off South Africa’s crowning as WTC Champions after a historic win over Australia at Lord’s. However, that championship-winning team will not be taking the field in Zimbabwe. A number of key players—including Aiden Markram, Kagiso Rabada, Marco Jansen, and Lungi Ngidi—are unavailable, paving the way for a host of new faces in the squad. Keshav Maharaj will step in as stand-in captain in Temba Bavuma’s absence due to injury.

Despite fielding a youthful team, South Africa will be confident, having never lost a Test match to Zimbabwe. Their dominant head-to-head record reads eight wins from nine encounters, with the only draw coming in 2001. However, the Queen Sports Club pitch, known for its batting friendliness early on and slow, spin-friendly deterioration, could prove to be a leveller given the inexperience in the South African ranks.

Zimbabwe’s Moment to Strike

For the hosts, this series marks the start of a busy home season and a chance to rebuild. With regulars Sikandar Raza and Richard Ngarava unavailable, the Chevrons will look to veterans like Craig Ervine and Sean Williams to guide new talents such as Prince Masvaure and Takudzwanashe Kaitano.

The pitch conditions and home advantage may give Zimbabwe a fighting chance to challenge a South African side in transition. Historically, teams batting second have fared better here—a strategic factor that will surely weigh into the captains’ decisions at the toss.

CTC Sports: Precision and Performance in Every Stitch

While South Africa and Zimbabwe prepare for their red-ball showdown, CTC Sports continues to lead the game in manufacturing high-quality cricket and hockey balls, along with custom sportswear and team gear for schools, clubs, and pro-level teams.

Expertise You Can Wear

CTC Sports offers top-tier embroidery, sublimation, and DTG printing, producing custom-designed kits that perform as well as they look—durable, breathable, and tailored to your team’s identity.

Official Standards

Our Indwe Cricket Balls, which served as the official ball for the WCPA 2024/25 Cricket League, are trusted across South Africa for their professional-grade seam integrity, leather quality, and match consistency.

Supporting the Game

Though not affiliated with the national teams, CTC Sports proudly supports the broader sporting community, aligning with regional tournaments and development leagues that shape the next generation of champions.

From cricket pitches to hockey fields, CTC Sports is where quality meets commitment. Whether you need custom kits or match-ready gear, we are your partner in performance.