Online Reporter
Tinashe Kusema
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ELTON CHIGUMBURA has spent the last couple of days having a series of pep talks with his charges as they brace for the start of the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup that begins next week.
Zimbabwe wrap up their preparations for the global showcase when they play Pakistan at Old Hararians Sports Club today.
And, keeping his charges grounded and focused and their nerves under check is of paramount importance to the Zimbabwe Under-19 coach.
“A bit of nervous energy is natural, but it’s a healthy kind,” said Chigumbura.
“It shows the boys care and understand the magnitude of the occasion.
“So our focus has been on staying present, sticking to our routines, and trusting the preparation we have done over a long period.
“So far, the environment in camp has been calm, focused, and positive,” he said.
Zimbabwe have had quite the eventful tour during the Tri-series.
The weather has been the series’ biggest obstacle as Zimbabwe have only completed the one match, a 19-run victory over Afghanistan, due to rain stoppages.
Their other three matches, once against Afghanistan and twice against Pakistan, were abandoned due to the rains.
Fortunately, Zimbabwe have profited from the disruptions, as their win over Afghanistan last week saw them book their place in the final. For the Zimbabwe Under-19 gaffer, these disruptions were also helpful to the team’s World Cup preparations.
“Despite the weather challenges, the tri-series has been extremely valuable,” he said.
“The interruptions have actually helped us prepare for real tournament conditions, like adapting to shortened games, changing plans quickly, and maintaining focus.
“The boys have gained match exposure, pressure experience, and clarity around their roles, which is exactly what we wanted.
While the World Cup remains the main objective, Zimbabwe go into today’s match with one intent, and that is to win.
After all, a winning culture within the team is always the target, and beating Pakistan will give the hosts the momentum going into the World Cup.
“Winning is always important, especially in a final, but the bigger picture remains our World Cup preparation,” said Chigumbura.
“What matters most is how we perform — our discipline, execution and decision-making under pressure.
“If we get those right, the result becomes a bonus.
“Momentum is built through consistent performances.
“The objectives are clear: play disciplined cricket, execute our plans in all phases, and stay composed under pressure.
“We want to compete hard, be brave in key moments, and continue building habits that will serve us well at the World Cup.
“If we do those things, we give ourselves the best chance of success,” he said.
Key to Zimbabwe’s success in both today’s final and the World Cup will certainly be the team’s bowling.
The batters are yet to show up to the party while the bowling department has been arguably Zimbabwe’s most potent weapon.
Zimbabwe’s bowlers successfully defended 185 runs during their win over Afghanistan and helped restrict the high-riding Pakistan to 208 during Sunday’s abandoned match.
One more good outing could see Zimbabwe head into the World Cup with their tails up.
“Yes, the bowling unit has been very encouraging,” said the Zimbabwe Under-19 gaffer.
“They have shown discipline, adaptability, and the ability to execute plans under pressure.
“It’s a well-balanced attack with different skill sets, and that gives us flexibility in various conditions.
“If we continue to bowl with clarity and intent, it will be a major strength for us,” he said.
Zimbabwe also appears to be in good shape.
According to Chigumbura, there are no major injury concerns, and any minor niggles are being managed well by the medical team.
Any decisions about players carrying slight niggles will be closer to the match, solely based on conditions and tactical balance.
