Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
ZIMBABWE Cricket has announced its upcoming tour to England in May, following improvements in bilateral relations between the two nations.
The test match is scheduled to take place at Trent Bridge from May 22nd to May 25th.
Zimbabwe last toured England in 2003, which also marked the last time the two countries played against one another.
However, recent times have seen a positive shift in relations, exemplified by county teams Durham and Nottinghamshire, which have toured Zimbabwe.
British Ambassador to Zimbabwe, His Excellency Pete Vowles, paid a courtesy visit to Zimbabwe Cricket this Thursday to symbolise the strengthening of ties.
“This is a wonderful time for cricket, sport continues to show the power it has in improving relationships and we are hoping that the relationship continues to improve and we also get England coming here soon,” Ambassador Vowles said.
Zimbabwe Cricket is excited to be playing against all the biggest cricket nations.
“This is massive for us. It shows that we are back in the table again as we are playing all the big nations. This is a big improvement on the status of the country and we will continue to work to improve the game in the country,” Zimbabwe Cricket’s chairperson Tavengwa Mukuhlani said.
Zimbabwe and England have met six times in tests and the two countries have dished out exciting action, including a dramatic final ball-drawn test in Bulawayo in 1996 as well as Zimbabwe’s inaugural test appearance at the Home of Cricket, Lords in 2000.
English county side Durham is touring Zimbabwe again this year and they are also bringing their women’s side that will play against the Lady Chevrons.
Plans are also underway to have England tour Zimbabwe in the coming years.
