Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
THE Zimbabwe national cricket team, the Chevrons, are determined to put up a good show for the fans when they take on Ireland in three T20 internationals beginning this Thursday at Harare Sports Club.
Zimbabwe will be playing in their first series after failing to qualify for the International Cricket Council 2024 T20 World Cup.
Ahead of the series, Dave Houghton has decided to give new players an opportunity after including two uncapped players in Brian Bennett and Trevor Gwandu in the squad.
Batting all-rounder Tony Munyonga and leg spinner Brandon Mavuta have been recalled, while Tendai Chatara, Nick Welch, Wellington Masakadza and Innocent Kaia have been dropped after a dismal tour of Namibia.
Senior player and former captain Craig Ervine has dedicated the series to the fans.
“Everyone is very disappointed, the players, the management and the fans, so we are happy to be back in familiar conditions. Everyone is very determined to make the fans proud they have been on our side, so we are determined to make the country proud, and the timing of this series is perfect for us to remind everyone of how we are especially playing at home,” Craig said.
Despite Zimbabwe seemingly limping, Ireland are not taking their hosts lightly.
“There is no need to take Zimbabwe lightly, we haven’t won a series in Zimbabwe. Yes, they didn’t do well, but we are expecting a great series and we hope we can finally get that series win here in Zimbabwe,” said Ireland captain, Paul Stirling.
Ireland have never won a T20 series in Zimbabwe.
The matches start this Thursday with an evening game that commences at 6pm at Harare Sports Club.
The other two matches slated for Saturday and Sunday will start at 1pm.
