Another mouth watering prospect

one-off Test, which will conclude the international home fixtures for this year.
Most series played between these two countries have been reasonably closely contested matches with the exception of New Zealand’s last tour in 2005 with the two Test matches lasting two and three days respectively.
In previous tours, however, there have been some spellbinding contests and fantastic individual performances from players from both sides.

Grant Flower had arguably the series of his life when New Zealand toured the country in 1997 and it was his contributions of 104 and 152 in the first Test that nearly gave Zimbabwe what would have been their second Test win had New Zealand’s champion all-rounder Chris Cairns’ broad bat not denied Alistair Campbell’s men a deserved victory.
What was so remarkable about Flower’s two innings was that the first innings of 104 was so typical of the now batting coach – concentration personified and gutsy while the 152 he scored in the second innings was laced with boundaries, 13 of them to be precise, as well as three sweetly timed sixes.

A huge amount of his runs were scored backward of square on the off side.
Another performance worth remembering was a truly outstanding effort by leg spinner Paul Strang, who claimed eight New Zealand wickets in their first innings, and 10 in the match despite Zimbabwe losing by seven wickets in Bulawayo, which is where the Test match will be played.

And so those who were part of these matches or those who simply remembered watching them as ardent supporters have a good idea of the competitive cricket that used to be played between these two sides.
But the significance of New Zealand touring Zimbabwe is so much greater than two nations renewing their sporting ties.
What will be taking place in mid-October and early November goes far beyond the fields of Harare Sports Club and Queens Sports Club.

It proves that even though words have been spoken, and the disagreements in certain areas have been clear for all to see, sport has shown itself to be the clear winner as the likes of David Coltart, and many more, have been able to thrash out agreements which have settled the disagreements.

The seed was planted in September last year when New Zealand A toured the country and 13 months later, the Test side will be here which shows that teams are still prepared to tour the country.
It is also important to try and stay mindful of the fact that despite the outcome, positive strides have been made by both parties to put some smiles on cricket lovers’ faces.

However, it is fair to say that the smiles would be considerably bigger if Brendan Taylor and his charges are able to produce some positive results.