Blessing Muzarabani was born on 2 October 1996 in Murewa, Zimbabwe. Growing up, he was taller than most kids his age, and his height naturally drew him toward sports. Initially, he played basketball and volleyball at school, but cricket soon became his passion.
His family supported his sports career, with his parents encouraging him to join cricket coaching camps in Harare. Coaches quickly noticed his natural pace and the bounce he could generate, even as a teenager.
By his late teens, Blessing had joined Zimbabwe’s cricket development programs, polishing his bowling skills and building the discipline needed for a professional career.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Blessing Muzarabani |
| Date of Birth | 2 October 1996 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 28 years |
| Birthplace | Murewa, Zimbabwe |
| Height | 6 feet 8 inches (203 cm) |
| Batting Style | Right-hand bat |
| Bowling Style | Right-arm fast-medium |
| Role | Bowler |
| ODI Debut | 15 January 2018 vs Bangladesh |
| Test Debut | 11 November 2017 vs South Africa |
| T20I Debut | 9 July 2018 vs Pakistan |
| Major Teams | Zimbabwe, Multan Sultans, Karachi Kings, Northamptonshire |
| Best ODI Bowling | 5/49 |
| Best Test Bowling | 4/48 |
| Relationship Status | Not publicly confirmed |
| Known For | Height, bounce, and sharp pace |
Physical Profile
Blessing’s most striking physical feature is his 6 feet 8 inches frame, which makes him one of the tallest fast bowlers in world cricket. His long stride and high release point create steep bounce that troubles even the best batters.
He maintains fitness through strength training, running drills, and flexibility exercises to handle the workload of fast bowling. His height gives him a natural edge, but his control and accuracy make him a consistent threat.
Cricket Career Journey
Domestic & Early International Entry
Blessing made his first‑class debut for the Mountaineers in 2014 at the age of 18. His early performances, including several four‑wicket hauls, earned him a spot in Zimbabwe’s national squad.
He made his Test debut against South Africa in November 2017, his ODI debut in January 2018 against Bangladesh, and his T20I debut in July 2018 against Pakistan. His pace and bounce impressed cricket analysts from the start.
Career Break & County Cricket
In 2019, Blessing made a bold decision to step away from Zimbabwe cricket to sign a Kolpak deal with Northamptonshire in English county cricket. This move was driven by a desire to improve his skills in competitive conditions and secure financial stability.
Playing in England helped him master seam movement and control in swinging conditions. Over two seasons, he became a key bowler for Northamptonshire, regularly taking wickets in both red‑ball and white‑ball formats.
Return to Zimbabwe Cricket
When the Kolpak system ended in 2021 due to Brexit, Blessing returned to play for Zimbabwe. His comeback was powerful — he immediately became the spearhead of the national bowling attack in all formats.
He played crucial roles in Zimbabwe’s ODI and T20I wins, including standout spells against Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Ireland.
Career Highlights & Records
Test Cricket
- Matches: 14
- Wickets: 38
- Best Bowling: 4/48
- Known for maintaining tight lines even on unhelpful pitches.
One-Day Internationals (ODIs)
- Matches: 70+
- Wickets: 100+
- Best Bowling: 5/49
- Economy rate under 5.5, making him effective in middle overs.
T20 Internationals (T20Is)
- Matches: 50+
- Wickets: 60+
- Best Bowling: 3/21
- Often bowls in powerplays and death overs with good control.
Franchise Cricket Success
Blessing’s skills have been in demand in franchise leagues. He has played for:
- Multan Sultans (Pakistan Super League) – winning the 2021 PSL title.
- Karachi Kings (PSL) – leading their pace attack in later seasons.
- Oval Invincibles (The Hundred) – making strong T20 impacts.
In franchise cricket, he is valued for his ability to bowl yorkers and slower balls, complementing his natural bounce.
Memorable Matches
- Pakistan vs Zimbabwe, 2021: Took key wickets to help Zimbabwe win a famous T20I in Pakistan.
- PSL Final 2021: Bowled tight overs to help Multan Sultans clinch their first title.
- Ireland Tour 2023: Claimed a match‑winning five‑wicket haul in ODIs.
Playing Style & Strengths
Blessing relies on:
- Steep bounce due to height
- Consistent line and length
- Clever use of slower balls in T20s
- Ability to adapt between formats
While pace is his weapon, he often bowls within himself to prioritize control and economy.
Personal Life
Blessing keeps his personal life private. There is no confirmed public information about a girlfriend or marriage. Off the field, he enjoys spending time with family, traveling, and mentoring young cricketers.
He is also involved in community cricket programs in Zimbabwe, helping underprivileged kids get access to coaching and gear.
Controversies & Challenges
Blessing’s decision to take a Kolpak contract in 2019 stirred debate in Zimbabwe cricket circles. Some saw it as a loss of national talent, while others viewed it as a smart career move to gain experience and financial security.
Injuries have also been a challenge — his tall frame puts extra stress on joints, and he has missed matches due to niggles. However, his work ethic and recovery discipline have helped him return stronger.
Impact on Zimbabwe Cricket
Since returning in 2021, Blessing has been central to Zimbabwe’s bowling plans. His presence gives the attack a genuine pace option, something Zimbabwe lacked for years. He has inspired younger bowlers like Richard Ngarava to believe they can compete at the highest level.
Future Goals
At 28, Blessing is entering his peak years as a fast bowler. His goals include:
- Helping Zimbabwe qualify for the next ICC Cricket World Cup and T20 World Cup.
- Increasing his wicket tally in all formats.
- Playing more franchise cricket globally to improve skills and earn exposure.
He aims to be remembered as one of Zimbabwe’s greatest modern‑day fast bowlers.
