Online Reporter
Blessing Malinganisa, Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE Chevrons will look to extend their impressive home run when they take on Bangladesh in a three-match T20 International series at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo.
Captain Sikandar Raza said the Chevrons have already shifted their focus to the shortest format, which is set to commence tomorrow.
The series comes on the back of the successful ODI and Test campaigns against Bangladesh, a result that has further strengthened belief within the national side.
However, Raza says the team has put those celebrations aside as they prepare for a fresh challenge.
“The ODI series is behind us now and we are fully focused on the challenge of T20 cricket,” said Raza. “It’s a completely different format that demands a different mindset, so we have reset and our attention is now on starting the series strongly in Bulawayo.”
Zimbabwe enter the contest buoyed by growing confidence after a string of encouraging performances on home soil, but Raza warned that momentum alone will not guarantee success against a Bangladesh side eager to respond.
“Winning breeds confidence and that’s something we have built over the last few games,” he said.
“But momentum only counts if you keep performing. Bangladesh are a quality side and they will come hard at us, so we know we have to earn every result.”
The Chevrons will once again enjoy home advantage at Queens Sports Club, a venue that has become synonymous with some of Zimbabwe’s memorable white-ball performances. Raza believes the Bulawayo crowd can play a crucial role in lifting the team.
“Queens Sports Club is a special venue for us. We have always enjoyed tremendous support in Bulawayo and hopefully the fans will come out in numbers again. Playing in front of our home supporters gives us an extra lift.”
While the ODI triumph has raised expectations, Zimbabwe are aware that T20 cricket demands a different approach, with aggressive batting, disciplined bowling and sharp fielding often deciding matches in a matter of overs.
“Our focus is on playing fearless but smart cricket,” Raza said.
“In T20s, the margins are very small, so it is about making good decisions under pressure and staying disciplined in all three departments.”
“Everyone understands their role and that’s one of the biggest strengths of this group,” he said.
“Whether you’re batting, bowling or fielding, every contribution matters in T20 cricket. We will be looking for another complete team performance.”
